La carne
Pedro Aznar
The Struggle and Resilience of the Marginalized
Pedro Aznar's song "La carne" is a poignant commentary on the systemic oppression and marginalization of Black people. The repeated line, "la carne más barata del mercado es la carne negra" (the cheapest meat in the market is Black meat), serves as a powerful metaphor for how society devalues Black lives. This devaluation is evident in various forms of systemic injustice, such as higher incarceration rates, substandard employment opportunities, and inadequate mental health care, as highlighted in the lyrics.
Aznar also touches on the historical and ongoing contributions of Black people to the country, emphasizing that their labor has been foundational. Despite this, they are often met with violence and discrimination, symbolized by the line, "el revólver ya está engatillado" (the revolver is already cocked). This imagery suggests a constant threat of violence that looms over Black communities, yet it also hints at a slow but determined quest for justice.
The song concludes with a call to action, urging for a fight for respect and justice. Aznar acknowledges the resilience and bravery of Black ancestors and their descendants, who continue to struggle against systemic racism. The repetition of the word "luchar" (to fight) underscores the ongoing nature of this battle, emphasizing that the fight for justice and respect is far from over. Through its raw and evocative lyrics, "La carne" serves as both a tribute to the resilience of Black communities and a call to recognize and rectify the injustices they face.