Malevaje

Carlos Gardel's 'Malevaje' is a poignant tango that delves into the transformative power of love, particularly how it can change even the toughest of individuals. The song's protagonist is a former 'malevo'—a term used in Argentine slang to describe a tough, streetwise man—who finds himself utterly changed by the love of a woman. The opening lines, 'Decí, por Dios, ¿qué me has dao, que estoy tan cambiao, no sé más quien soy?' (Tell me, for God's sake, what have you given me, that I am so changed, I no longer know who I am?), set the tone for a narrative of profound personal transformation.

The protagonist's former life was one of bravado and fearlessness, as indicated by the line 'Me ve perdiendo el cartel de guapo que ayer brillaba en la acción' (They see me losing the reputation of a tough guy that shone in action yesterday). However, the love he feels has made him vulnerable, stripping away his former identity and leaving him feeling defeated and ensnared by his emotions. The imagery of 'tangueando altanera' (swaggering haughtily) and the sensuality of the woman's presence highlight the magnetic pull she has on him, leading him to lose his 'fe, el coraje, el ansia 'e guapear' (faith, courage, and the desire to be tough).

The song also touches on themes of fear and vulnerability, emotions that were foreign to the protagonist before he fell in love. The line 'Ayer, de miedo a matar, en vez de pelear me puse a correr' (Yesterday, out of fear of killing, instead of fighting, I started to run) illustrates his newfound fear and hesitation. This is a stark contrast to his previous life, where he never backed down from a fight. The transformation is so complete that he even contemplates religious devotion, something that would have been unthinkable in his former life. '¡Ya no me falta pa' completar más que ir a misa e hincarme a rezar!' (All that's left for me to complete is to go to mass and kneel to pray!) underscores the depth of his change.

' Malevaje' is a rich exploration of how love can profoundly alter one's identity, making even the most hardened individuals question who they are. Gardel's emotive delivery and the evocative lyrics make this song a timeless reflection on the power of love and vulnerability.