Peron's Latest Flame (feat. Madonna)

“Peron's Latest Flame” from the musical *Evita* is a biting commentary on the rise of Eva Perón, portrayed by Madonna, through the eyes of Che, played by Antonio Banderas. The song captures the disdain and skepticism of the Argentine aristocracy and military towards Eva, a former actress and radio star, who has become the mistress and later the wife of Colonel Juan Perón. The lyrics are filled with sarcasm and contempt, reflecting the upper class's resistance to Eva's ascent from humble beginnings to a position of power and influence.

Che's narration reveals the aristocrats' and military's view of Eva as an opportunist who is unworthy of her newfound status. They mock her background and question her motives, suggesting that she is using Perón for her own gain. The repeated references to her being a “dangerous jade” and a “slut” highlight the misogyny and classism prevalent in their society. The aristocrats' preference for seeing her behind the jewelry counter at Harrod's rather than in a position of power underscores their belief that she does not belong in their world.

Eva's own lines in the song express her frustration with the state of Argentina and her desire to bring about change. She positions herself as a voice for the people, contrasting sharply with the self-serving attitudes of the elite. This tension between Eva's populist appeal and the establishment's resistance to her is a central theme of the musical. The song ultimately portrays Eva as a complex figure, both admired and reviled, whose ambition and charisma challenge the status quo in Argentine society.