El Que Atrasó El Reloj

Carlos Gardel, a legendary figure in the world of tango, brings to life a vivid narrative in his song 'El Que Atrasó El Reloj.' The lyrics paint a picture of frustration and disappointment directed at a character named Pepino, who is portrayed as lazy and unproductive. Gardel's powerful voice and emotive delivery amplify the sense of exasperation, making the listener feel the weight of the speaker's grievances.

The song opens with a call to Pepino to get out of bed, highlighting his laziness and the speaker's frustration with having to work hard while Pepino does nothing. The metaphor of the broken scissors used to cut codfish suggests that the tools for success are no longer functioning, possibly due to Pepino's negligence. The speaker warns Pepino about the consequences of his inaction, emphasizing that those with money thrive while those without must struggle.

Gardel uses vivid imagery and colloquial language to convey the speaker's anger and disappointment. Phrases like 'vos sos, che, vagoneta, el que atrasó el reloj' (you are, lazybones, the one who set back the clock) and 'ya estoy en llanta de llevarte a pulso' (I'm exhausted from carrying you) illustrate the depth of the speaker's frustration. The song also touches on themes of social inequality and the harsh realities of life, where hard work is essential for survival. The final lines, where the speaker threatens to burn the mattress, underscore the urgency and desperation of the situation.

'El Que Atrasó El Reloj' is a poignant reflection on the struggles of daily life and the resentment that can build up when one person feels burdened by another's lack of effort. Gardel's masterful storytelling and emotive performance make this song a timeless piece that resonates with anyone who has felt the weight of carrying someone else's load.