Don Gato
El Chivi
The Tragic and Humorous Tale of Don Gato
The song 'Don Gato' by El Chivi is a humorous and somewhat tragic narrative about a cat named Don Gato. The lyrics tell the story of Don Gato, who is sitting on a rooftop, serenading a female cat who is the niece of a brown cat. The playful and repetitive 'maramamiau miau miau' adds a whimsical touch to the storytelling, making it feel like a children's rhyme despite its darker undertones.
As Don Gato attempts to court the female cat, he falls off the roof, resulting in severe injuries, including seven broken ribs, a broken spine, and a broken tail. This sudden shift from a light-hearted courtship to a tragic accident introduces a sense of irony and dark humor. The song continues with the townspeople carrying Don Gato to his burial through the 'calle del pescado' (fish street), which adds another layer of irony, considering cats' well-known love for fish.
The final lines of the song, 'Por eso dice la gente 7 pichas tiene un gato,' translate to 'That's why people say a cat has seven lives.' This phrase is a humorous twist on the common saying that cats have nine lives, suggesting that despite his severe injuries, Don Gato's spirit and resilience remain intact. El Chivi's style often includes satirical and humorous elements, and 'Don Gato' is no exception, blending dark humor with a playful narrative to create a memorable and entertaining song.