Select y Start
Tourista
Escaping Reality Through Nostalgic Games
Tourista's song "Select y Start" delves into the emotional turbulence and existential weariness that many people experience in their daily lives. The lyrics open with a sense of malaise, suggesting that the protagonist is struggling with something fundamentally wrong in their life. This feeling of discontent is described as a 'vital' weariness, indicating that it is deeply ingrained and essential to their current state of being. The mention of a 'magical game' and a 'brown sugar bomb for two' introduces the idea of escapism, where the protagonist seeks solace in nostalgic and comforting activities to avoid their pain.
The chorus, with its references to electronic parties and psychedelic lights, paints a vivid picture of a vibrant, almost surreal escape from reality. These elements symbolize a temporary refuge where the protagonist can lose themselves in sensory overload and forget their troubles. However, the line 'Pero tú ya te vas' (But you are already leaving) adds a layer of melancholy, suggesting that even in these moments of escape, there is an underlying sense of loss and impermanence.
The second verse intensifies the feeling of instability, with the protagonist's 'nervous system' on the verge of collapse. The imagery of 'up and down, A, B, select and start' evokes the classic video game controls, further emphasizing the theme of seeking refuge in simpler, more controllable worlds. Yet, this escape is not without its consequences, as the protagonist acknowledges that their current state is a result of 'not knowing how to bet,' implying a series of poor life choices. The repetition of the phrase 'es vital' underscores the critical nature of their emotional and mental exhaustion, making it clear that this cycle of escapism and reality is unsustainable.