Gambeta

Asspera's song 'Gambeta' paints a vivid picture of the daily struggles and frustrations of a working-class individual. The lyrics open with the protagonist waking up at six in the morning, already dealing with a hangover and the mundane routine of preparing for work. The use of colloquial language and raw expressions like 'que vida de porqueria' (what a shitty life) immediately sets a tone of disillusionment and weariness. The imagery of 'pateando al tren a laburar' (kicking to the train to work) amidst 'travestis y veredas reventadas' (transvestites and broken sidewalks) highlights the gritty reality of urban life, where even the weather seems to conspire against him.

As the song progresses, the protagonist's journey on the train is described with a mix of humor and despair. The 'olor a pedo, olor a huevo' (smell of farts, smell of sweat) and the chaotic environment of the train car, filled with pickpockets, snobs, and street vendors, create a sense of claustrophobia and frustration. The repeated encounters with 'el chancho puto' (the damn pig) and the daily 'gambeteando este kilombo' (dodging this mess) underscore the relentless nature of his struggles. Despite this, there is a glimmer of hope as he dreams of a change in fortune, whether through winning the lottery or some other stroke of luck.

The song culminates in a powerful outburst of anger and defiance. The protagonist curses at God and the Virgin Mary, expressing his deep-seated resentment and questioning the fairness of his plight. This raw and unfiltered expression of rage serves as a cathartic release for the protagonist, encapsulating the essence of 'Gambeta' as a song about navigating life's chaos and holding onto hope amidst overwhelming adversity. Asspera's use of humor, vivid imagery, and unflinching honesty makes 'Gambeta' a poignant reflection on the struggles of the working class.