Memoria de Siglos

The song 'Memoria de Siglos' by Hermetica, an influential Argentine heavy metal band, delves into the themes of human nature, societal hypocrisy, and the transient nature of success and power. The lyrics reflect a critical view of how people interact with each other and the world around them, suggesting a cycle of replacing old idols with new ones, and the inevitability of falling from grace. The band is known for its thought-provoking lyrics and 'Memoria de Siglos' is no exception, offering a commentary on the human condition and the flaws inherent in society.

The song begins by addressing the tendency of people to dismiss the defeated and to harshly judge those who have fallen from their pedestals. This speaks to the fickleness of human admiration and the cruel delight in seeing the mighty fall. The 'human limitation' mentioned in the lyrics suggests that no one is immune to this cycle of rise and fall, as success is often temporary and subject to change. The reference to 'olfateamos muchas cosas' (we sniff out many things) implies a constant search for truth amidst a mix of both appealing and repulsive realities.

Hermetica also touches on the concept of freedom and its remnants, hinting at the superficiality of those who claim to be free. The 'gorro frigio' (Phrygian cap) is a symbol of liberty, yet the song suggests that some wear it not out of conviction but merely to cover their baldness, a metaphor for hiding one's deficiencies. The band criticizes the human tendency to seek scapegoats for personal failures and the ease with which people absolve themselves by blaming others. The concluding lines denounce the normalization of violence and the euphemism of war, calling out the hypocrisy that pervades human actions and societal norms.