El Viejo Galeón

Kraken's song 'El Viejo Galeón' is a powerful critique of modern civilization, using the metaphor of an old galleon to represent society's directionless and destructive path. The repeated calls to 'civiliza, civiliza, civiliza civilización' emphasize the relentless push towards a so-called civilized state, which the band suggests is more about control and conformity than true progress. The imagery of a ship without a rudder ('un barco sin timón') symbolizes a society that advances without clear direction or purpose, leading to a sense of chaos and lack of control over one's life.

The lyrics also touch on the oppressive nature of education and societal expectations. The line 'Nos obligan aprender, sedentaria educación' criticizes the static and uncreative nature of traditional education systems, which are portrayed as mechanisms to drain individuals of their vitality and creativity ('sustraer, nuestra sangre en promoción'). This metaphorical 'prison of brains' ('cárcel de cerebros') leads to self-destruction and a loss of individuality, as people are forced to conform to societal norms and expectations.

The song's chorus, with its commands to 'todos a babor... todos a estribor,' reflects the chaotic and contradictory demands placed on individuals by society. The almirante, or admiral, represents the authoritative figures who enforce these norms, leading a 'nave corroída por el sol,' a ship corroded by the sun, symbolizing a decaying and unsustainable civilization. Ultimately, 'El Viejo Galeón' is a call to rethink and challenge the direction in which society is heading, advocating for a more thoughtful and autonomous approach to life.