Cerró Sus Ojitos Cleto

Chava Flores' song "Cerró Sus Ojitos Cleto" is a darkly humorous narrative that delves into the events surrounding the death and wake of a man named Cleto. The song is rich with cultural references and a satirical tone, painting a vivid picture of the Mexican tradition of velorios (wakes) and the often hypocritical nature of mourning. Flores, known for his witty and observational songwriting, uses this song to explore themes of death, debt, and societal norms with a blend of humor and irony.

The lyrics describe Cleto's death and the subsequent wake, where his widow, Luchita, dramatically mourns his passing. The doctor’s dismissive attitude towards Cleto's death and the widow's exaggerated grief highlight the often performative nature of mourning. The song also touches on the financial struggles and debts Cleto left behind, suggesting that his death might have been a convenient escape from his responsibilities. The line "Yo creo que adrede este Cleto se enfrió, pues lo que debe jamás lo pagó" implies that Cleto's death was almost intentional, a final act of defiance against his creditors.

The wake itself is depicted as a chaotic and irreverent event, filled with drinking, gambling, and storytelling. The mourners' behavior, including the widow losing the coffin in a bet, underscores the absurdity and lack of genuine sorrow. The song ends with a humorous twist, as the widow is left wondering what to do with Cleto's body. This irreverent portrayal of death and mourning serves as a critique of societal attitudes towards death, highlighting the often superficial and self-serving nature of public displays of grief.

Chava Flores' "Cerró Sus Ojitos Cleto" is a masterful blend of humor and social commentary, using the story of Cleto's death to explore deeper themes of hypocrisy, financial struggle, and the human tendency to mask true emotions with performative actions.