Bichos Escrotos
Mamonas Assassinas
A Satirical Ode to the Unwanted: 'Bichos Escrotos' by Mamonas Assassinas
Mamonas Assassinas, a Brazilian rock band known for their humorous and satirical songs, delivers a biting critique of societal norms and human behavior in 'Bichos Escrotos.' The song's title, which translates to 'Disgusting Creatures,' sets the tone for a piece that is both irreverent and thought-provoking. The lyrics call out various pests and vermin, such as cockroaches, rats, and fleas, urging them to come out of hiding and invade the spaces of 'civilized' citizens. This can be seen as a metaphor for the hidden, often ignored, aspects of society that are deemed undesirable or unworthy of attention.
The song's playful yet provocative language challenges the listener to reconsider what is considered 'normal' or 'acceptable.' By inviting these 'disgusting creatures' to 'enfeitar' (decorate) their homes and meals, the band is making a bold statement about the superficiality and hypocrisy of societal standards. The mention of various animals, including a 'painted jaguar' and a 'striped zebra,' followed by the expletive 'vão se foder' (go fuck yourselves), further emphasizes the band's disdain for the arbitrary distinctions between what is considered beautiful or ugly, valuable or worthless.
Mamonas Assassinas uses humor and shock value to deliver a deeper message about the human condition. The song suggests that the true 'disgusting creatures' are not the pests and vermin but rather the societal norms and behaviors that marginalize and devalue certain groups or individuals. By turning the tables and glorifying the 'bichos escrotos,' the band encourages listeners to question their own prejudices and the societal structures that uphold them.