El Sistema

Cadena Perpetua's song "El Sistema" is a powerful critique of societal and systemic failures. The lyrics express a deep sense of frustration and disillusionment with the current state of affairs. The repeated questioning of "Where is the progress?" and "Where is the future?" highlights the artist's despair over the lack of meaningful change and improvement in society. The song paints a bleak picture of a world where unemployment is rampant, and the future seems uncertain and dependent on favorable circumstances.

The song's chorus, "Where is the happiness? Where is the love?" underscores the emotional toll of living in such a flawed system. The verses describe a world where police and criminals are indistinguishable, government officials are corrupt, and the military causes suffering. This imagery serves to illustrate the pervasive nature of corruption and injustice, making it clear that these issues are not isolated incidents but systemic problems.

The spoken word section of the song is particularly striking, as it lists various societal contradictions and failures. It criticizes politicians, the media, the education system, the judiciary, and the military, highlighting how each of these institutions contributes to the overall dysfunction of society. The line "money is freer than people" encapsulates the song's central theme: the dehumanizing effects of a system that prioritizes profit over people. The song concludes with a call to continue the fight against these injustices, acknowledging the long and difficult struggle ahead.

"El Sistema" is a poignant and powerful anthem for those who feel oppressed and marginalized by the current state of the world. It serves as a reminder of the importance of questioning authority and fighting for a more just and equitable society.