El plato del día

Pequeña Orquesta Reincidentes' song "El plato del día" paints a vivid picture of the monotonous and often soul-crushing routine of daily life. The lyrics open with the protagonist's morning ritual, marked by the sound of the alarm, the newspaper, and the radio breaking the silence. This sets the stage for a day that is already running late, hinting at the constant rush and pressure that defines modern life. The mention of preparing a face to wear suggests a need to put on a facade, a common theme for those who feel they must hide their true selves to fit into societal expectations.

As the protagonist steps out with a walkman, the noise of the world becomes overwhelming, symbolizing the mental clutter and lack of genuine connection in daily interactions. The crowded bus, described as carrying people with their own crosses, underscores the shared yet isolated struggles of the daily commute. The greeting to the office chair and the struggle to find meaning in the workday reflect a sense of disillusionment with the corporate grind. The lyrics poignantly describe the effort to maintain appearances, even as the protagonist feels the weight of unspoken frustrations and the metaphorical 'frogs' swallowed to keep the peace.

The chorus, questioning "Cuál será el plato del día?" (What will be today's dish?), serves as a metaphor for the unpredictable challenges and small hopes that each day brings. The lunch break scene, with familiar faces and a poignant confession from a fellow diner, adds a layer of shared human suffering and the search for solace in brief moments of connection. The song closes with the protagonist's return home, navigating the remnants of the day and clinging to the hope that "Mañana será otro día" (Tomorrow will be another day). This refrain encapsulates the resilience and enduring hope that keeps people moving forward despite the daily grind.