Cría Cuervos
Obús
Betrayal and Bitterness: The Dark Lesson of 'Cría Cuervos'
Obús's song 'Cría Cuervos' delves into the themes of betrayal and the harsh lessons learned from misplaced trust. The title itself, which translates to 'Raise Ravens,' is a reference to the Spanish proverb 'Cría cuervos y te sacarán los ojos' (Raise ravens and they will peck out your eyes). This proverb warns that those you help or nurture may turn against you, a sentiment that is vividly portrayed throughout the song's lyrics.
The narrator begins by expressing a sense of disillusionment, having believed in someone and offered their best, only to be met with betrayal ('picotazos' or pecks). This imagery of being pecked by ravens symbolizes the pain and damage caused by those who were trusted. The repeated refrain 'Cría cuervos, dales la ocasión, cuando emprendan vuelo, tápate los ojos...van por tí' (Raise ravens, give them the chance, when they take flight, cover your eyes...they're coming for you) serves as a stark warning about the consequences of nurturing those who may ultimately harm you.
As the song progresses, the narrator's tone becomes increasingly bitter and vengeful. They advise against turning one's back on these 'tender creatures' who can become 'vermin,' suggesting that it would be better to give them poison instead of food. This drastic shift from nurturing to advocating for preemptive harm ('córtales el cuello' or cut their necks) underscores the depth of the narrator's betrayal and the extreme measures they believe are necessary to prevent future pain.
'Cría Cuervos' is a powerful exploration of trust, betrayal, and the dark side of human relationships. It serves as a cautionary tale, urging listeners to be wary of those they choose to help and to recognize the potential for harm even in those who seem innocent or deserving of care.