La Carretilla Indomable Ii
Damas Gratis
The Uncontrollable Cart: A Tale of Addiction and Love
Damas Gratis, a popular Argentine cumbia band, brings forth a raw and unfiltered narrative in their song 'La Carretilla Indomable II.' The lyrics delve into the struggles of addiction, using the metaphor of an 'uncontrollable cart' to describe the protagonist's inability to escape the cycle of substance abuse. The phrase 'Hoy he vuelto tomar no puedo dejar de manimulear' translates to 'Today I drank again, I can't stop manipulating,' highlighting the compulsive nature of his actions. The cart, symbolizing his life, has become unmanageable, and he turns to alcohol ('escabiar') as a means to numb his pain and escape reality.
The song also explores the search for solace and companionship amidst this turmoil. The protagonist yearns for an 'ideal girl' who can provide him with a sense of stability and acceptance. However, this relationship is complicated by the fact that he compares the girl to a drug, saying 'porque sos como la droga la que me enamora la que me hace fashear,' which means 'because you are like the drug that makes me fall in love, that makes me hallucinate.' This comparison underscores the idea that his love for her is as intense and consuming as his addiction, blurring the lines between affection and dependency.
Damas Gratis infuses the song with their signature cumbia rhythm, adding a layer of cultural context to the narrative. The upbeat tempo contrasts with the somber themes, creating a poignant juxtaposition that reflects the duality of seeking joy in the midst of despair. The repeated call to 'Cumbiaaaa con damas gratis' and 'Sentimiento mamitaaa' serves as a reminder of the band's roots and the communal spirit of cumbia music, even as the lyrics tackle deeply personal and painful experiences.