De Que

Rubén Blades' song "De Que" delves into the emptiness that can accompany material wealth when it lacks purpose or understanding. The repetitive chorus, "De que te vale tener y tener si tu no sabes que hacer ni que hacer ni que hacer con lo que tienes," translates to "What good is it to have and have if you don't know what to do with what you have." This line underscores the central theme of the song: the futility of accumulating possessions without a deeper sense of purpose or direction.

Blades critiques those who focus on materialism and superficiality, pointing out that words and appearances can often be deceiving. He mentions people who spend their time gossiping and pretending to be something they are not, highlighting the hollowness of such behavior. The song suggests that true value lies not in what one owns but in how one uses and understands their possessions and life.

The song also carries a tone of defiance and self-assurance. Blades addresses those who might envy or wish to undermine him, asserting that their efforts are in vain. The repeated laughter in the lyrics, "ahahahahahahahaaaa," adds a mocking tone, emphasizing his confidence and the absurdity of valuing material wealth over genuine understanding and purpose. This laughter can be seen as a metaphor for the joy and freedom that come from living a life of meaning rather than one of mere accumulation.

"De Que" is a powerful commentary on the superficiality of materialism and the importance of finding true purpose and understanding in life. It challenges listeners to reflect on their own values and the true worth of their possessions and actions.