El tonto Simón

Radio Futura's song "El tonto Simón" delves into the life of a marginalized individual named Simón, who is ostracized and ridiculed by his community. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of Simón's daily existence, marked by his peculiar gait and the constant judgment he faces from the townspeople. The song opens with the setting sun and men lurking around a bar, highlighting the mundane yet oppressive atmosphere of the town. Simón's interactions are limited to brief, often condescending exchanges, where he is asked where he is going or what he wants to eat, emphasizing his isolation and the lack of genuine human connection in his life.

The narrative reveals that Simón is a figure of local folklore, with a tragic backstory that the townspeople use to feel better about their own lives. They believe that his father's death, allegedly for burning a church, and Simón's subsequent misfortune are divine punishments. This belief system not only dehumanizes Simón but also serves as a means for the community to justify their treatment of him. The repeated refrain, "Eres tonto Simón y no tienes elección," underscores the fatalistic view that Simón has no choice but to accept his lot in life, further entrenching his role as the town's scapegoat.

The song also touches on moments of fleeting kindness, such as a woman who occasionally offers Simón food and conversation. However, these moments are overshadowed by the overall sense of neglect and abuse he endures. The lyrics suggest that Simón has become numb to the physical and emotional pain inflicted upon him, as seen in the lines, "los golpes ya no duelen, ay Simón." The song concludes with a somber note, advising Simón to leave the town and seek solace in the wilderness, where he might find some semblance of peace and warmth, even if only from the stars and animals. This ending highlights the profound sense of alienation and the desperate need for escape from a society that has failed him.