Las Cuarenta

Adriana Varela's rendition of 'Las Cuarenta' is a poignant exploration of life's harsh realities, encapsulated through the lens of a seasoned individual who has seen and experienced it all. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who has been hardened by life's trials and tribulations, symbolized by the 'pucho de la vida' (the cigarette of life) clenched between their lips. This imagery sets the tone for a narrative steeped in disillusionment and a sense of betrayal by the world around them.

The song delves into themes of disillusionment and the loss of innocence. The narrator reflects on their journey, acknowledging the lessons learned from both good and bad experiences. They speak of the superficiality of relationships, where friendships and love are often transactional, and the value of a person is measured by their wealth. This cynical view is further emphasized by the lines 'Aprendí que en esta vida hay que llorar si otros lloran / Y, si la murga se ríe, uno se debe reír,' suggesting that one must conform to societal expectations to avoid being labeled a fool.

'Las Cuarenta' also touches on the futility of striving for goodness in a world that often rewards deceit and manipulation. The narrator recounts moments of personal failure and societal injustice, leading to a profound sense of mistrust and skepticism. The repeated refrain 'Aprendí todo lo bueno, aprendí todo lo malo' underscores the duality of their experiences, highlighting the complexity of human nature and the inevitability of encountering both virtue and vice. Through this song, Varela captures the essence of a life lived with eyes wide open, unflinchingly confronting the bitter truths that many prefer to ignore.