840

Pala Ancha's song '840' delves into the grim and often hidden world of exploitation and manipulation. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who controls and exploits women, using them for financial gain. The song opens with a casual mention of 'unas locas' (some crazy girls), 'birras' (beers), and 'fasos' (joints), setting a scene of reckless abandon and substance use. This carefree facade quickly gives way to a more sinister reality as the protagonist reveals his true intentions.

The man in the song takes advantage of the women, making them work ('laburar') and then collecting the money they earn. He manipulates them emotionally, telling them he loves them and showering them with affection and gifts, only to send them back to work. The repeated line 'Yo las mando a laburar' (I send them to work) underscores the cyclical nature of this exploitation. The reference to '840' is particularly chilling, as it suggests a code or signal used within this exploitative system, highlighting the organized and systematic nature of the abuse.

Throughout the song, the man maintains a facade of care and affection, bathing the women, dressing them, and even telling them bedtime stories. However, this care is superficial and self-serving, designed to keep the women dependent on him. The lyrics also touch on themes of control and objectification, with the man dictating what the women can wear and how they should present themselves. The song's repetitive structure and haunting melody reinforce the sense of entrapment and hopelessness experienced by the women. '840' is a stark commentary on the dark underbelly of exploitation, revealing the emotional and psychological manipulation that often accompanies such abuse.