La Bola De Cristal

Mecano's 'La Bola De Cristal' is a fascinating exploration of the unknown and the mysterious, wrapped in the guise of a tropical night and a crystal ball. The song begins with the arrival of an enigmatic being, described as an 'extraño ejemplar de la fauna sideral' (a strange specimen of the sidereal fauna). This sets the stage for a narrative that delves into themes of curiosity, fear, and the human tendency to question the unfamiliar.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a community grappling with the presence of this otherworldly visitor. The townspeople are puzzled and intrigued, as evidenced by lines like 'Quién será, quién puede ser, si nadie conoce su nombre' (Who will it be, who can it be, if no one knows their name). This sense of mystery is heightened by the fact that the being does not speak any recognizable language, only making noises, which further alienates it from the community. This can be seen as a metaphor for how society often reacts to the unknown or the 'other,' highlighting issues of xenophobia and the fear of the unfamiliar.

The song also touches on the innocence and open-mindedness of children, who, unlike the adults, are more accepting and even excited about the visitor. They want the being to arbitrate their Saturday games, showing a stark contrast to the adults' investigative and suspicious approach. This juxtaposition underscores the purity and acceptance often found in children, suggesting that fear and prejudice are learned behaviors. Mecano, known for their eclectic and innovative style, uses this narrative to challenge listeners to reflect on their own reactions to the unknown and to embrace curiosity over fear.