El Arbitro

Los Miserables' song 'El Arbitro' delves into the disillusionment with the concept of justice, particularly as it is administered by those in power. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of arbiters of justice who, despite their outward appearance of fairness and integrity, are ultimately corruptible. The recurring theme is that everyone has a price, and true justice is often compromised by those who are supposed to uphold it. This sentiment is encapsulated in lines like 'Todos tienen su precio' (Everyone has their price) and 'A faltas iguales, siempre vamos a perder' (For equal faults, we will always lose), highlighting the inherent bias and inequality in the system.

The song uses powerful imagery and metaphors to convey its message. The arbiters are described as being 'vestidos de negro' (dressed in black) with a 'sonrisa a flor de piel' (smile on their face), suggesting a facade of righteousness that hides their true nature. The guillotine metaphor is particularly striking, symbolizing the harsh and often unjust punishment meted out to those who challenge the status quo. The lyrics also touch on the mental imprisonment of these arbiters, who are trapped by their own corruption and deceit, as seen in 'En su carcél mental, encierra su maldad' (In their mental prison, they enclose their evil).

The song also critiques the broader societal and religious structures that support this flawed system of justice. The lines 'Sus leyes son escritas en el nombre de dios' (Their laws are written in the name of God) and 'Tantas leyes... ¡Nada de justicia!' (So many laws... No justice!) underscore the hypocrisy and moral failings of those who wield power. Despite the bleak outlook, the song ends on a note of hope, asserting that 'La justicia se tarda, pero llegará' (Justice is delayed, but it will come). This suggests a belief in eventual accountability and the possibility of true justice prevailing, even if it takes time.