La costumbre

The song 'La costumbre' by Arbolito delves into the theme of desensitization and the human tendency to become accustomed to various aspects of life, both positive and negative. The lyrics list a series of situations and conditions to which one can become habituated, ranging from sadness and routine to poverty and defeat. The repetition of 'te acostumbras' (you get used to) emphasizes the ease with which people can adapt to circumstances, even those that are harmful or dehumanizing, such as eating poorly, experiencing cold relationships, and enduring mistreatment.

However, the song also touches on the resilience of the human spirit, as seen in the lines that mention December and October, symbolizing hope and the possibility of change. These months could represent times of personal significance or cultural events that bring joy and renewal. The song suggests that despite the overwhelming force of habit, there are memories and experiences that remain vivid and can inspire transformation. The outro of the song reinforces this message, with the singer declaring that there are certain injustices and disparities they will never become accustomed to, such as poverty and child labor.

Arbolito is known for their socially conscious lyrics and fusion of folk with other genres. 'La costumbre' reflects their commitment to addressing societal issues and encouraging listeners to remain empathetic and resistant to normalization of injustices. The song is a call to awareness, urging people not to accept the unacceptable as normal and to hold on to the parts of life that bring genuine meaning and hope.