Puente La Noria
Viejas Locas
A Cry Against Pollution and Despair in 'Puente La Noria'
In 'Puente La Noria,' Viejas Locas paints a grim picture of environmental degradation and societal decay. The song opens with a vivid image of smoke filling the air on General Paz, a major highway in Buenos Aires, and a bird struggling to fly through the polluted sky. This imagery sets the tone for the song, highlighting the dire consequences of pollution on nature and life. The bird's struggle symbolizes the broader environmental crisis, suggesting that if the pollution continues, it will eventually lead to the demise of all living beings.
The lyrics then shift to a more direct critique of human actions, referring to the 'shit' thrown into the sea by 'pigs,' a metaphor for those who pollute without regard for the consequences. The mention of Moby Dick, a symbol of nature's power, suggests a desire for retribution against those responsible for environmental harm. The reference to the Riachuelo, one of the most polluted rivers in Argentina, underscores the severity of the pollution problem. The song's tone is one of frustration and anger, reflecting a sense of helplessness in the face of ongoing environmental destruction.
As the song progresses, it delves into themes of existential dread and escapism. The fear of a nuclear explosion and the idea of buying a brain to cope with the madness of the world illustrate a deep sense of despair. The mention of 'Poxi-Ran,' a type of glue often used for inhalant abuse, highlights the desire to escape reality through substance abuse. This act of self-destruction is portrayed as a way to avoid facing the harsh realities of the world, even if it means harming oneself. The song ends on a bleak note, emphasizing the individual's struggle to cope with a world that seems beyond repair.