The lyrics to Los Prisioneros's song Las Sierras Eléctricas describe the power and control that money has, particularly through the image of electric saws cutting through coins in banks' secret vaults. The song focuses on the idea that money is not just valuable, but that it can also be dangerous, especially for the vulnerable or weak. The line "Las sierras eléctricas cortan tus muñecas" (electric saws cut your wrists) is particularly stark in its depiction of the harm money can do. The song seems to suggest that those who possess money are capable of wielding it like a weapon, cutting down anyone who gets in their way. The repeated chorus of "Corte!" (Cut!) emphasizes this aggressive imagery.

At the same time, the song also implies that those who can accumulate vast amounts of money become almost invincible: "Pero luego de un millón de sen cenados / Se hacen de una fortuna respetable" (But after a million ceases are eaten / They make themselves a respectable fortune). There is an irony in the idea that these ruthless individuals become respectable, since their wealth is often acquired through unethical means. This ambiguity extends to the final repetition of "Oh": is this an expression of despair at the power of money, or a resigned acknowledgement that it is an unavoidable force in our lives?

Interesting facts about "Las Sierras Eléctricas":

Interesting Facts
Note: This section uses generative AI, which can be inaccurate.

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