Chismes

Alberto Cortez's song "Chismes" delves into the world of small-town gossip, highlighting how rumors can shape and distort perceptions. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a community where whispers and hearsay travel quickly, often without regard for the truth. The song begins with the character Doña María, who is informed about the latest scandal involving Doña Lucía's daughter. The daughter is said to have fallen in love with a seemingly unsuitable man, described as a long-haired, guitar-playing rogue. This initial portrayal sets the stage for the judgment and disdain that follow, as the community quickly labels him a disrespectful and disheveled scoundrel.

The chorus of the song, with its repetitive "Que patatín... Que patatán," mimics the relentless and cyclical nature of gossip. It emphasizes how rumors are spread from person to person, stinging like a mix of wasps and scorpions. This imagery captures the harmful and often exaggerated nature of gossip, which can damage reputations and relationships. The song's tone shifts in the latter part, where the same man, once vilified, is now praised as a wonderful and talented artist. This sudden change in perception underscores the fickle and unreliable nature of public opinion, driven by envy and misinformation.

Cortez's "Chismes" serves as a commentary on the destructive power of gossip and the importance of looking beyond surface-level judgments. It reminds listeners that people's true worth cannot be determined by the fleeting and often malicious words of others. The song's narrative, rich with cultural references and vivid characterizations, offers a timeless lesson on the value of integrity and the dangers of succumbing to idle chatter.