Desde El Pirulí

Victor Manuel's song 'Desde El Pirulí' offers a contemplative and critical view of his country, Spain, from a metaphorical high vantage point. The 'pirulí' refers to the iconic Torrespaña, a communications tower in Madrid, symbolizing a place from which one can observe the entire nation. The lyrics paint a picture of a country that is both confused and happy, grappling with its identity and what it does not want to become. This duality reflects the transitional period Spain experienced post-Franco, as it moved towards democracy and modernity.

The song delves into the media's role in shaping public perception, with references to a television that broadcasts in black and white, symbolizing outdated or limited perspectives. The 'vast medium' where 'the sun never sets' suggests the pervasive influence of media, yet it also highlights the 'dead zones of imagination,' areas where creativity and critical thinking are stifled. The mention of uniforms draining color from the scene hints at the lingering presence of authoritarianism and conformity, remnants of the Franco era.

Victor Manuel also touches on the themes of memory and censorship. He speaks of the necessity to remain silent about certain things, either because they are too painful or because they 'smell bad,' indicating corruption or unpleasant truths. The line about conserving memory and not being able to forget 'the fear, the names, and what lies behind' underscores the importance of historical memory and the trauma that persists in the collective consciousness. The final verse, where he talks about measuring words and maintaining balance on a trapeze, reflects the delicate act of navigating freedom of expression in a society still haunted by its past.