A Chitón

Ska-P's song 'A Chitón' is a powerful anthem against repression and censorship, reflecting the band's characteristic punk and ska influences. The repeated command '¡Callad! A chitón' (which translates to 'Shut up! Silence') serves as a stark representation of the oppressive forces that seek to silence dissent and control the populace. The imagery of 'bandadas de cuervos del gran dictador' (flocks of crows of the great dictator) evokes a dark, Orwellian atmosphere where freedom of speech is under constant threat.

The lyrics delve into the mechanisms of state control, questioning why the state is treated as a personal fiefdom by those in power. The song criticizes laws that repress and censor in the name of 'our security,' highlighting the irony and hypocrisy of such justifications. The repeated use of 'amordazados, amordazadas' (gagged) emphasizes the physical and psychological pain inflicted on those who dare to speak out. Despite this, the song carries a message of resilience and hope, asserting that no gag can silence the human spirit or the dream of a better world.

Ska-P also addresses the broader implications of repression, such as the invasion of privacy and the control over individual lives. The lyrics warn of the dangers of thinking freely, as it could lead to imprisonment. Yet, the song remains defiant, declaring that no barrier can stop the pursuit of a diverse and just society. The call to action is clear: those who repress and censor must be held accountable. The song's closing lines, which speak of increasing penalties and strengthening repression, serve as a grim reminder of the ongoing struggle against authoritarianism, but also a rallying cry for resistance and solidarity.