Aurolito Corbalán

El Cuarteto de Nos, a renowned Uruguayan rock band known for their satirical and often controversial lyrics, presents a darkly humorous yet poignant narrative in their song 'Aurolito Corbalán.' The song tells the story of a young boy named Aurolito who enjoys a private pleasure, only to be harshly reprimanded by his mother and the church. The lyrics use a playful tone to discuss serious themes such as repression, guilt, and the consequences of societal and religious pressures on individual behavior.

The song begins by introducing Aurolito, who finds joy in a personal activity. However, his mother catches him and labels him a 'degeneradito,' or a little degenerate. This harsh judgment leads Aurolito to take drastic measures to avoid further reprimand. The repeated phrase 'se cortó el porotito' (he cut off his little bean) is a metaphor for self-mutilation, symbolizing the extreme lengths to which individuals might go to escape societal condemnation.

As the narrative progresses, Aurolito's mother sends him to church to confess his 'sin,' where he is further shamed and threatened with eternal damnation. The church's warnings about physical and mental consequences add to the pressure on Aurolito, ultimately leading him to harm himself. The song's tragic conclusion, where Aurolito dies from his self-inflicted wound, serves as a stark commentary on the destructive power of repression and the lack of understanding and compassion from both family and religious institutions.

El Cuarteto de Nos uses this story to critique the rigid moral standards imposed by society and the church, highlighting the devastating impact these pressures can have on individuals, especially the young and vulnerable. The band's characteristic blend of humor and tragedy invites listeners to reflect on the importance of acceptance and the dangers of judgment and repression.