Soldado

The song 'Soldado' by The Casualties tells the poignant story of Juan, a young man who becomes a soldier due to a lack of opportunities and societal pressures. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of Juan's life, starting with his lack of education and employment, which leaves him with nothing to lose. This sense of hopelessness drives him to become a soldier, armed with a gun and tasked with killing others. The song questions the reasons behind his actions, hinting at a deeper societal critique.

Juan's journey as a soldier is marked by a loss of compassion and love, as he writes home to parents who are also struggling without work. The song highlights the stark contrast between the rich, who laugh at Juan's plight, and the poor, who suffer. This disparity is a central theme, emphasizing the class struggle and the exploitation of the working class by the wealthy elite. Juan's role as a soldier is depicted as a tragic and futile endeavor, fighting in a war without proper equipment, leading to his physical and emotional destruction.

The chorus urges Juan to open his eyes and recognize the true enemy: the bourgeoisie. The repetition of 'Juan a la derecha, Juan a la izquierda' symbolizes his confusion and the manipulation he faces, being directed to fight against his own people. The song calls for awareness and resistance against the oppressive system, encouraging Juan and others like him to see through the lies and stand up for their community. 'Soldado' is a powerful critique of war, class inequality, and the exploitation of the vulnerable, wrapped in the raw energy of punk rock.