El Peso

Charly García's song 'El Peso' delves into the existential weight and societal pressures that individuals carry throughout their lives. The opening lines, 'Yo nací en Jerusalén,' set a tone of displacement and search for identity. Jerusalem, a city with profound historical and religious significance, symbolizes a place of origin that is both sacred and burdened with conflict. García's feeling of needing a place to 'poner los pies' (put his feet) reflects a universal quest for belonging and stability in a world that often feels alien and unwelcoming.

The recurring plea, 'Saquen este peso, sáquenlo de aquí,' translates to 'Take this weight, take it away from here,' and serves as a powerful metaphor for the emotional and psychological burdens imposed by society. The 'peso' (weight) could represent various forms of pressure, such as societal expectations, personal guilt, or existential angst. The mention of 'cuarenta y siete botellas' (forty-seven bottles) occupying space suggests the accumulation of vices or coping mechanisms that people use to deal with their burdens, further complicating their lives.

García also touches on themes of faith and contradiction, as seen in the lines about believing in the Virgin Mary, Mary Magdalene, and the Holy Spirit. This blend of religious figures highlights the complexity and often contradictory nature of belief systems. The 'contradicción' (contradiction) at the center of the earth with many addicts could be interpreted as the inherent conflicts within human nature and society. The song's melancholic tone and repetitive chorus emphasize the relentless struggle to shed these burdens and find peace, making 'El Peso' a poignant reflection on the human condition.