Herculano

Chava Flores' song 'Herculano' is a humorous narrative that revolves around the dissatisfaction of a man with his given name, Herculano, which he feels carries a negative connotation. The lyrics describe a series of names that are considered to have an unpleasant or 'maloliente' (bad-smelling) association. The protagonist, Herculano, decides to go to court to change his name, believing that a new name could rid him of the shame and discomfort he experiences.

The song continues with a comical interaction between Herculano and the judge, where Herculano expresses his desire to have a name that reflects the depth of a worldly sage. He chooses the name 'Profundo' (which means 'deep' in Spanish), but the judge, who is portrayed as a joker, twists the name into 'Profundillo,' a diminutive form that undermines the seriousness Herculano was aiming for. This twist adds to the humor and irony of the situation, as Herculano's attempt to gain dignity through a name change is playfully subverted.

Chava Flores, known for his satirical songs about Mexican life and culture, uses this story to comment on the importance and impact of names in society. The song reflects on how names can influence perceptions and how individuals may go to great lengths to alter their identity for acceptance. The playful tone and clever wordplay are characteristic of Flores' style, making 'Herculano' a lighthearted take on a topic that can resonate with anyone who has ever felt burdened by their name.