Tango do Presídio

The song 'Tango do Presídio' from the musical 'Chicago' is a darkly humorous and satirical piece that delves into the confessions of women imprisoned for murdering their significant others. The repetitive chant of 'Pop! Seis! Squish! Há-Hã! Cícero! Lipschitz!' sets a rhythmic and almost hypnotic tone, reflecting the cyclical nature of their stories and the crimes they committed. Each name and sound represents a different woman and her tale of betrayal and retribution.

The lyrics reveal the motivations behind each murder, often framed as justified acts of vengeance. For instance, one woman describes how her husband Bernie drove her to madness with his incessant gum-chewing, leading her to shoot him in a fit of rage. Another recounts discovering her partner's multiple marriages and poisoning him with hemlock. These stories are told with a mix of nonchalance and dark humor, highlighting the absurdity and extremity of their actions.

Cultural references and societal critiques are woven throughout the song. The mention of a Mormon with six wives and the casual discussion of poisoning and stabbing underscore the extreme measures these women took in response to their partners' betrayals. The song also touches on themes of infidelity, jealousy, and the lengths to which people will go when pushed to their limits. The repeated refrain 'E foi bem feito' (It was well done) serves as a chilling reminder of their perceived justification for their actions, suggesting a twisted sense of justice and retribution.

'Tango do Presídio' is a powerful commentary on the darker aspects of human relationships and the extreme actions that can result from betrayal and emotional turmoil. Its blend of humor and horror makes it a memorable and thought-provoking piece within the 'Chicago' musical.