Opresión Natural

In 'Opresión Natural,' Pastoral delves into the conflict between urbanization and the natural world. The song opens with a vivid image of cement oppressing lives, particularly those of 'strange poets' who are stifled by the encroaching cityscape. This metaphor highlights the suffocating effect of urban development on creativity and individuality. The sun setting against a building, unable to touch the 'total extension,' symbolizes the limitations imposed by human-made structures on the natural world and human spirit.

The lyrics then shift to critique the relentless pursuit of building higher and higher, driven by a desire to create distinctions among people. This ambition to dominate and differentiate through material achievements is contrasted with the essence of nature, which is portrayed as being oppressed and ignored. The 'strange king' with a thirst for power represents humanity's insatiable drive for control, which is met with 'human indifference.' The song calls for a halt to this destructive path, urging listeners to recognize the essential value of nature before it is too late.

In the latter part of the song, the focus turns to the resilience of nature. Termites, often seen as pests, are depicted as a force capable of devouring cement, symbolizing nature's ability to reclaim its space. The repeated question, 'What is nature?' invites introspection about our relationship with the natural world. The termites' eventual happiness and their sighting of the sun suggest a hopeful vision where nature can thrive despite human interference. This powerful imagery underscores the song's message: the need to respect and preserve the natural world amidst the pressures of urbanization.