La Culpable

Aterciopelados' song 'La Culpable' is a bold declaration of independence and self-awareness. The lyrics, delivered with a mix of metaphors and straightforward statements, paint a picture of a person who refuses to conform to societal expectations, particularly those related to relationships and motherhood. The protagonist likens themselves to various entities such as an armadillo, an airplane, and a mouse, suggesting a multifaceted personality that is both resilient and elusive. This imagery sets the stage for the central theme: a desire to avoid being the 'culpable' or guilty party in a relationship that could lead to emotional damage.

The song's chorus, 'No quiero ser la culpable de dañar tu corazón,' translates to 'I don't want to be the one to hurt your heart.' This line encapsulates the protagonist's reluctance to settle down with a man, not out of malice but out of a deep-seated need for freedom. The lyrics 'No quiero sentar cabeza con un varón' further emphasize this, indicating a refusal to conform to traditional gender roles and expectations. The protagonist's self-description as a 'locomotora en riel de montaña rusa' (a locomotive on a roller coaster track) and a 'gallito de pelea' (a fighting rooster) underscores their untamed and rebellious nature.

Aterciopelados, known for their eclectic mix of rock, folk, and electronic music, often tackle social and political issues in their songs. 'La Culpable' is no exception, as it challenges the conventional norms surrounding love, relationships, and motherhood. The line 'No dañare mi silueta con un bebé' (I won't ruin my figure with a baby) is particularly striking, as it confronts the societal pressure on women to become mothers. The song ultimately celebrates individuality and the right to live life on one's own terms, free from guilt and societal expectations.