Soy Una Fiera
Carlos Gardel
The Thrill of the Race: A Gambler's Life in 'Soy Una Fiera'
Carlos Gardel's song 'Soy Una Fiera' paints a vivid picture of a man's life consumed by the thrill of horse racing and gambling. The lyrics describe the protagonist's Sunday routine, waking up groggy and often forgetting to eat because he's so eager to get to the races. He grabs his essentials, including his cigar and a car, to ensure he arrives early. This urgency underscores his deep obsession with the races, as he even jokes that the races would be canceled if he didn't open the gates himself.
The song delves into the various aspects of his gambling life, from betting on horses to frequenting cabarets. Gardel's character is portrayed as someone who, despite his best efforts and strategies, often ends up losing. He refers to himself as a 'fiera' (beast) when it comes to gambling, yet he admits that he always ends up 'en la palmera' (broke). This duality highlights the addictive nature of gambling, where the thrill and hope of winning are constantly overshadowed by the reality of loss.
Gardel also touches on the social aspects of gambling, mentioning how he buys the newspaper to check the horse racing predictions and how he relies on tips from others. Despite the frequent disappointments, he remains undeterred, always ready to place his next bet. The song captures the essence of a gambler's life, filled with highs and lows, camaraderie, and a relentless pursuit of the next big win. Gardel's portrayal is both a celebration and a cautionary tale, reflecting the allure and the pitfalls of a life dedicated to gambling.