Canción del trabajo

The song 'Canción del trabajo' by the Chilean rock band Los Prisioneros delves into the often contradictory feelings about the nature of work and its impact on personal identity and satisfaction. The lyrics express a sense of disillusionment and apathy towards the narrator's job, highlighting a common sentiment that many workers can relate to: having a job that pays but doesn't fulfill or motivate.

The repeated lines about work supposedly dignifying a person are used ironically. The narrator questions what 'dignifies' truly means, suggesting a disconnect between the traditional view of work as a noble endeavor and the reality of mundane, unfulfilling tasks. This skepticism is further emphasized by the juxtaposition of 'dignifies' with trivial or corrupt elements like 'petty cash,' 'traffic,' and playful phrases, indicating a cynical view of how work is often perceived versus its actual value to personal growth and happiness.

Moreover, the song touches on themes of existentialism and resistance against societal norms. The repetitive nature of the lyrics and the mention of 'wasting time' being equated with happiness challenge the conventional belief that hard work and productivity are the ultimate goals. Los Prisioneros are known for their critical and often politically charged lyrics, and 'Canción del trabajo' serves as a commentary on the broader social and economic systems that value profit over genuine human fulfillment.