Pan Comido

Carlos Gardel's 'Pan Comido' is a poignant tango that delves into the life of a man who has fallen from grace. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who once had potential but has consistently failed to live up to expectations. The song uses a variety of metaphors, particularly from the world of horse racing, to illustrate the protagonist's shortcomings and the harsh judgments he faces from society.

The opening lines describe the protagonist as a 'caído de la cuna,' or 'fallen from the cradle,' suggesting that his failures were almost predestined. He is referred to as a 'pobre diablo' and a 'maleta,' terms that emphasize his unfortunate and pitiable state. The use of horse racing metaphors, such as 'handicaps corridos' and 'te has perdido el vento al poker,' further underscores his inability to succeed despite numerous attempts. These metaphors serve to highlight the competitive nature of life and the protagonist's consistent inability to come out on top.

Gardel's lyrics also touch on themes of pride and self-deception. The protagonist is criticized for 'dándote dique,' or putting on airs, despite having no real achievements to his name. The song suggests that he is living in a delusion, believing himself to be more capable than he actually is. This is further emphasized by lines like 'Seguí no más bellaqueando, creyéndote un buen dorique,' which imply that his bravado is nothing more than a facade. The song ultimately serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and the importance of self-awareness.

The final verses of the song drive home the point that the protagonist has a long way to go before he can achieve any real success. He is described as a 'potrillo de dos años,' a two-year-old colt, indicating that he is still immature and inexperienced. The advice to 'nacer de nuevo' or 'be born again' suggests that he needs a complete transformation to have any chance of success. The song ends on a somber note, emphasizing that without significant change, the protagonist will remain a 'perdedor,' or loser, forever.