Crisis

Joaquín Sabina's song 'Crisis' is a poignant and biting commentary on the multifaceted crises plaguing modern society. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of economic, social, and personal turmoil, using a mix of dark humor and stark realism. The song opens with a reference to the stock market crash, likening it to the infamous 1929 crash, setting the tone for a narrative steeped in financial despair. The imagery of 'fish mutinying against the owner of the river' symbolizes the rebellion of the oppressed against the powerful, a recurring theme throughout the song.

Sabina delves into various societal crises, from the erosion of values to the decay of institutions. The line 'Crisis en la escuela, quien no corre vuelva, sexo, drogas, rock and roll' highlights the disarray in the education system and the escapism sought through hedonistic pursuits. The mention of 'funeral without flowers' and 'dollars in a sock' underscores the bleakness and the desperate measures people resort to in times of financial hardship. The song's chorus, repeating the word 'crisis,' serves as a relentless reminder of the pervasive nature of these issues.

The song also touches on personal crises, such as the 'crisis in the bed' where 'each dream is a drama,' reflecting the intimate struggles individuals face amidst broader societal chaos. The reference to 'Clark Kent no longer being Superman' suggests a loss of heroes and a sense of disillusionment. Sabina's use of cultural references, from Mao's Red Book to the Apocalyptic Now pill, enriches the narrative, making it a tapestry of historical and contemporary despair. The song's closing lines, 'Crisis, crisis, crisis,' leave the listener with a sense of unresolved tension, mirroring the ongoing and unresolved nature of the crises depicted.