Bajo Vigilancia
Ska-P
Under Surveillance: The Struggle for Freedom in a Controlled World
Ska-P's song 'Bajo Vigilancia' delves into the themes of control, manipulation, and the loss of freedom in modern society. The lyrics paint a picture of a world where individuals believe they can soar with 'wings of metal,' only to find themselves unable to take flight. This metaphor suggests a false sense of freedom and autonomy, where people think they live with dignity and liberty, but in reality, they are deceived and constrained by unseen forces.
The song highlights the suppression of dissent and the stifling of voices, as seen in the lines 'Ver morir la paz y no poder gritar' (Seeing peace die and not being able to scream) and 'Nos tenéis amordazados' (You have us gagged). This imagery evokes a sense of helplessness and frustration, as people are forced to remain silent and compliant under the watchful eyes of those in power. The repeated question '¿Dónde está la ilusión?' (Where is the illusion?) underscores the disillusionment and the realization that everything is under control, with reason and freedom held captive.
Ska-P also critiques the educational system, referring to 'Ejércitos de universidad' (armies of university) that conform and manipulate individuals. The song suggests that society is being turned into 'fábricas de robots' (factories of robots), dominated and observed continuously. Despite this bleak outlook, there is a glimmer of hope in the 'gritos de liberación' (cries of liberation) that emerge from the crowd, indicating a shared connection and a collective desire for freedom. The song ends on a haunting note, emphasizing the inescapable nature of surveillance and control, as individuals are constantly monitored and their minds, lives, and very beings are under continuous scrutiny.