Europa
Arbolito Lyrics

In Arbolito's powerful song "Europa," the lyrics decry the hypocrisy and violence that lie beneath the surface of European culture and progress. The opening lines challenge the idea that culture has no scent and that progress is not rotten. The imagery of blood under fingernails and the screaming of history suggest a hidden violence and a whitewashing of past atrocities. The question of whether what we are told is true or not is left open-ended, inviting further thought about the real motivations behind European cultural dominance.

The second verse unapologetically points out the destructive legacy of European colonialism upon indigenous peoples, such as Latin America. The addressing of the white viewer makes it clear that Europe has been benefiting from the exploitation of native peoples, rather than promoting the idea of equality and respect. It warns that the debt will be paid back somehow - whether in their banks of shit or in the awakening of the indigenous people. The striking imagery of the gorda (fat lady) insinuates the opulence and affluence of Europe built upon the pile of dead and repressed natives. Despite its achievements, the "beauty of the conquered" continues to haunt the European conscience.

The chorus of the song emphasizes the gap between the image of a cultured and refined Europe and the harsh reality of its past and present. The contrasting images of Europe's artists and music with the suffering and pollution of the third world create a jarring effect to the listener. Ultimately, the lyrics of "Europa" brings to light the underlying themes of exploitation, suffering, and dishonest historical revisionism that continue to be part of European culture.