Las Viejas Del Cuarteto

El Cuarteto de Nos, a renowned Uruguayan rock band known for their satirical and often humorous lyrics, presents a vivid narrative in 'Las Viejas Del Cuarteto.' The song tells the story of five old women riding their sewing machines into the city, symbolizing a journey of defiance and resilience. These women, referred to as 'las viejas,' are depicted as rebels who have faced the harsh realities of life and emerged with a carefree, almost anarchic attitude. Their journey is marked by the dust and debris of their past struggles, highlighting the hardships they have endured and the strength they have gained from their battles.

The chorus emphasizes their disregard for societal norms and expectations. The phrase 'perdiendo el respeto' (losing respect) suggests that these women no longer care about conforming to social standards. Instead, they engage in playful, irreverent behavior, symbolized by 'jugando al teto,' a phrase that can be interpreted as engaging in carefree or mischievous activities. Their indifference to those who do not understand or accept them is captured in the line 'le importan tres carajos,' indicating a complete lack of concern for others' opinions.

The song also explores the varied reactions of the townspeople to the women's presence. Some criticize, some admire, and others remain indifferent, watching from their balconies. This range of responses reflects the broader societal attitudes towards nonconformity and rebellion. The old women become a spectacle, attracting both mockery and admiration. The final verses suggest that their legacy will be diverse, with their songs and poems evoking different memories and emotions. The line 'en invierno no hay pepinos' (in winter there are no cucumbers) serves as a metaphor for the unexpected and often nonsensical nature of life, reinforcing the song's theme of embracing the absurd and rejecting conventional wisdom.