Extra, Extra

Miguel Mateos' song 'Extra, Extra' is a poignant commentary on the socio-political climate of Argentina during the 1980s. The lyrics are a blend of personal and societal reflections, capturing the frustration and disillusionment of a generation. Mateos uses vivid imagery and metaphors to convey a sense of urgency and a desire for change. The opening lines, 'Puedo escribir con rouge te amo en el espejo' (I can write 'I love you' with lipstick on the mirror), juxtapose personal intimacy with the broader societal issues, suggesting that personal and political realms are intertwined.

The song critiques the promises made to future generations while questioning the present conditions. The line 'nos dicen que el futuro es de nuestros hijos, entonces vos y yo, que hacemos vos y yo' (they tell us the future belongs to our children, so what do we do, you and I?) highlights the uncertainty and lack of direction felt by the current generation. Mateos also addresses gender issues and the machismo prevalent in Argentine society, as seen in 'puedo acabar con el machismo argentino' (I can end Argentine machismo), indicating a desire for gender equality and social progress.

The recurring chorus 'Extra, extra, no puedo verte mal, nada es real, todo es ficción' (Extra, extra, I can't see you sad, nothing is real, everything is fiction) underscores the theme of disillusionment. The phrase 'viviendo con la cola entre las piernas en el callejón' (living with our tails between our legs in the alley) evokes a sense of defeat and resignation. The song also touches on economic struggles, with lines like 'y no tengo dinero para un mísero café en la popular' (and I don't have money for a miserable coffee in the popular). This highlights the economic disparity and the daily struggles faced by ordinary people. Through 'Extra, Extra,' Mateos calls for awareness, action, and a collective effort to address these pressing issues.