Atenti pebeta

Celedonio Flores' song "Atenti Pebeta" is a vivid portrayal of the social dynamics and challenges faced by young women in early 20th-century Buenos Aires. The term "pebeta" is a colloquial term for a young girl, and the song serves as a piece of advice from an older, experienced individual to a younger woman on how to navigate the streets and avoid falling prey to deceitful men, referred to as "bacanazos" or flashy men.

The lyrics are rich with colloquial language and cultural references, painting a picture of a society where appearances and social status play a significant role. The advice given includes acting indifferent and uninterested when approached by these men, who are often only interested in superficial relationships. The song warns against being too eager or easily impressed by material wealth, symbolized by well-pressed money ("leones bien planchados") and fashionable accessories like gloves and spats.

Flores also advises the young woman to adopt a more modest and conservative appearance, suggesting she lower her skirt to her ankles, grow her hair long, and avoid makeup. This advice reflects the societal expectations of modesty and propriety for women at the time. The song's tone is both protective and cautionary, emphasizing the importance of self-respect and awareness in a world where young women could easily be taken advantage of. The final lines, which suggest buying a gun for self-defense, underscore the harsh realities and potential dangers of the urban environment.

"Atenti Pebeta" is a poignant reminder of the gender dynamics and societal pressures of its time, offering a glimpse into the lived experiences of women in Buenos Aires and the strategies they employed to navigate their social world safely and with dignity.