No fue bueno, pero fue lo mejor

The song "No fue bueno, pero fue lo mejor" by Enrique Bunbury delves into the themes of acceptance, resilience, and the bittersweet nature of life's outcomes. The lyrics paint a picture of someone who is bracing themselves for the worst, ready to face defeat, mutilation, and even societal condemnation, which is referred to as a 'national sport' regardless of the country. This suggests a universal experience of struggle and the inevitability of facing hardships.

The chorus, 'No fue bueno, pero fue lo mejor,' which translates to 'It wasn't good, but it was the best,' encapsulates the essence of making peace with less-than-ideal circumstances. The song acknowledges that things often don't go as planned, yet there is a sense of resignation and finding solace in what is, rather than what could have been. This sentiment is further explored through references to childhood innocence and disillusionment, as the singer questions the whereabouts of childhood fantasies like the Tooth Fairy and the magic of fairy tales that promised transformation and happy endings.

Bunbury's lyrics also touch on the idea of legacy and the finality of life. The protagonist prepares meticulously for their own death, suggesting a conscious reflection on mortality and the legacy left behind. The imagery of sharks that couldn't devour the protagonist in life and the sinking of pirate symbols to the bottom of the sea evoke a sense of finality and the release of one's story to the depths of memory and history. The song, rich in metaphor and introspection, invites listeners to reflect on their own lives, the inevitability of change, and the importance of finding beauty in the imperfect.