Soñar Despierto

The song 'Soñar Despierto' by La Pestilencia, a Colombian punk band known for their social and political commentary, delves into the themes of violence, power, and the stifling of individual thought. The lyrics paint a bleak picture of a society where generations have been shaped by violence and the pursuit of power, leading to a cycle of death and oppression. The narrator expresses a sense of hopelessness, feeling unable to 'dream while awake' due to the mental imprisonment caused by the environment they were raised in.

The song criticizes the idea of being taught values in a world where the prevailing lessons are fear and aggression. The repetition of 'yo no puedo soñar despierto' (I cannot dream while awake) underscores the loss of innocence and the inability to envision a better future when one's reality is dominated by the harshness of survival and conflict. The 'mind is an automatic prison' that repeats what it sees, suggesting a lack of critical thinking and the perpetuation of destructive behaviors.

La Pestilencia's music often reflects the struggles of the marginalized and dispossessed, and 'Soñar Despierto' is no exception. It's a call to recognize the impact of societal violence on the psyche and the importance of breaking free from the mental chains that prevent progress and peace. The song ends with a sarcastic remark about a 'perfect world' where there is never any pain, highlighting the disconnect between the idealized values society claims to uphold and the grim reality experienced by many.