"Defensa De La Alegría" (Defense of Joy) is a song by Spanish singer-songwriter Joan Manuel Serrat. The lyrics depict the importance of defending happiness and joy as a valuable aspect of life, even in the face of chaos, nightmares, poverty, and the absence of loved ones. The song emphasizes the need to protect joy from being undermined by indifference, apathy, negativism, and societal pressures. Serrat encourages listeners to stand up for joy as a symbol and a flag, shielding it from lightning strikes and melancholy. Furthermore, the lyrics touch upon the idea of defending joy as a certainty against religious dogma and death, as well as against self-destructive behavior and acts of violence. Serrat acknowledges the paradoxical nature of finding happiness amid absurdity and the pain of being excessively cheerful. The song also highlights the necessity of safeguarding joy from societal norms and prejudices, as well as from unpredictable circumstances and even from joy itself. By advocating for the protection and celebration of joy, Serrat conveys a message of resilience and hope amidst the struggles of life. Overall, "Defensa De La Alegría" encourages people to value and protect joy as a vital force in the face of adversity, making it an anthem for embracing optimism, happiness, and the innate beauty of life.
