Como Un Duende

The song 'Como Un Duende' by Alux Nahual is a poignant portrayal of the harsh realities faced by street children. The title, which translates to 'Like a Goblin,' metaphorically represents the invisibility and marginalization of these children in society. The lyrics describe a child who has never asked to be born into a life of poverty and neglect, whose body is likened to the bones consumed by the earth, highlighting the child's vulnerability and the societal neglect they endure.

The song's chorus, 'es como un duende parece duende,' which repeats the idea of the child being like a goblin, emphasizes the notion that the child, despite being real, is treated as a mythical or invisible being. The absence of a childhood and the basic joys of life, such as a birthday cake, are starkly contrasted with the child's dreams and aspirations, which remain as fragile as 'paper dreams.' The child's resilience is evident in their hope for a new day and a better world, despite the overwhelming odds.

Alux Nahual, a Guatemalan rock band known for their socially conscious lyrics, uses this song to call attention to the plight of impoverished children and the need for societal change. The message is clear: these children are not mythical creatures but real human beings with potential and dreams. The song ends on a hopeful note, suggesting that education and care can transform the lives of these children and, by extension, the world. 'Como Un Duende' is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of compassion and the importance of addressing child poverty and homelessness.