Best Seller
Raul Seixas
The Satirical Critique of Modern Society in 'Best Seller'
Raul Seixas' song 'Best Seller' is a sharp and satirical critique of contemporary society, media, and politics. The lyrics paint a picture of a world where superficiality reigns supreme, and people are more interested in following trends than seeking genuine understanding. The 'Best Seller' in the song symbolizes a book that everyone wants to read, not because it offers valuable insights, but because it is fashionable. This reflects a society that values appearances over substance, where cultural consumption is driven by trends rather than meaningful engagement.
Seixas uses irony to highlight the absurdity of the situation. The repeated line, 'No final o bandido casa com o mocinho' (In the end, the villain marries the hero), suggests a world where traditional narratives and moral distinctions are blurred or irrelevant. This could be interpreted as a critique of how media and popular culture often simplify complex issues into easily digestible stories, ignoring the nuances and deeper truths. The mention of the media as 'our Ayatollah' underscores the idea that media has become a powerful, almost dictatorial force in shaping public opinion and culture.
The song also touches on political themes, with references to the president talking to Sting and the confusion over indigenous issues in Brazil. This highlights the disconnect between political leaders and the real issues affecting the population. The line 'E como é tudo a mesma merda' (And since it's all the same shit) reflects a sense of disillusionment with the political system, suggesting that despite changes in leadership or policy, the fundamental problems remain unchanged. Seixas' desire to seek asylum in Paraguay is a hyperbolic expression of his frustration and desire to escape the absurdity of the situation.
'Best Seller' is a powerful commentary on the superficiality, media influence, and political disillusionment of modern society. Through his clever use of irony and satire, Raul Seixas invites listeners to question the status quo and seek deeper understanding beyond the surface level of popular culture and media narratives.