La Lengua
Bertín Y Lalo
The Double-Edged Sword of the Tongue
Bertín Y Lalo's song "La Lengua" delves into the multifaceted nature of the human tongue, exploring its indispensable role and its potential to cause harm. The lyrics highlight the tongue's duality, serving both as a vital organ for tasting and speaking, and as a source of trouble when used carelessly. The song opens by acknowledging that everyone has a part of their body that can sometimes cause problems, referring to the tongue as "la maldita" (the cursed one). This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the tongue's complexities.
The song humorously yet poignantly describes various scenarios where the tongue can lead to negative consequences. For instance, it mentions how the tongue can be deceitful, leading to lies and misunderstandings, and how it can even result in physical altercations or imprisonment. The lyrics also touch on the tongue's role in religious contexts, where it can both bless and curse, highlighting its contradictory nature. The line "Por ella muchos ya se encuentran en panteones" (Because of it, many are already in cemeteries) underscores the serious repercussions that can arise from careless speech.
Despite its potential for causing harm, the song also acknowledges the tongue's essential functions. It is crucial for tasting different flavors and plays a significant role in intimate moments, as noted in the line "Son deliciosos los besitos de lengüita" (Little tongue kisses are delicious). This duality is central to the song's message, emphasizing that while the tongue is indispensable, it must be used with caution. Bertín Y Lalo's playful yet insightful lyrics serve as a reminder of the power of words and the importance of mindful communication.