Cell Block Tango

“Cell Block Tango” from the musical *Chicago*, performed by Catherine Zeta-Jones, is a darkly humorous and satirical song that delves into the stories of six women incarcerated for murdering their significant others. Each woman recounts her tale, justifying her actions with a sense of righteous indignation and a touch of irony. The repetitive chant of “Pop, Six, Squish, Uh-uh, Cicero, Lipschitz” serves as a mnemonic device, representing the sequence of their crimes and the men they killed.

The song is a powerful commentary on the themes of justice, revenge, and the societal expectations placed on women. Each woman’s story is a blend of humor and horror, illustrating how they were driven to commit murder by their partners' infidelities, lies, and abuses. For instance, Liz’s irritation with her husband’s gum-popping habit escalates to a fatal confrontation, while Annie’s discovery of her husband’s polygamy leads her to poison him. These narratives are delivered with a sense of dark comedy, highlighting the absurdity and extremity of their situations.

Culturally, “Cell Block Tango” reflects the era’s fascination with crime and punishment, particularly in the context of the Roaring Twenties, when the musical is set. The women’s unapologetic attitudes and the catchy, rhythmic structure of the song underscore the performative nature of their confessions, almost as if they are putting on a show for the audience. This aligns with the overarching theme of *Chicago*, which critiques the media’s sensationalism of crime and the public’s morbid curiosity.

The song’s blend of humor, tragedy, and social commentary makes it a standout piece in the musical, offering a glimpse into the complex motivations behind seemingly senseless acts of violence. It challenges the audience to consider the blurred lines between victim and perpetrator, and the societal pressures that can drive individuals to extreme actions.