Los Patinadores

Enrique Gotera's song "Los Patinadores" paints a vivid picture of a peculiar tradition that unfolds every December. The lyrics describe a group of individuals who wake up early throughout the month, ostensibly to go skating. However, their true intention is to wait for the milk delivery truck. This playful deception sets the stage for the song's humorous and slightly mischievous narrative.

As Christmas approaches, these skaters become a notorious presence in the city, causing trouble for the milkmen. The community is well aware of their antics, keeping a watchful eye on these "terrors of the milk." The repetition of the phrase "cuando llega Navidad" (when Christmas arrives) emphasizes the seasonal nature of this behavior, suggesting that it's a well-known and somewhat expected part of the holiday season.

The song also includes a humorous anecdote about one of the skaters being caught in the act. When confronted, he cheekily claims to be the milkman himself. This playful exchange highlights the lighthearted and mischievous spirit of the skaters. The final verses express a plea to the milk distributor to send the milk by mail to avoid the skaters' pranks, adding a touch of absurdity to the situation.

"Los Patinadores" captures the essence of a quirky holiday tradition, blending humor with a sense of community awareness. The skaters' antics, while troublesome, are portrayed in a way that suggests they are an accepted, if not entirely welcome, part of the Christmas season. Gotera's song is a charming reflection on how even the most mischievous behaviors can become endearing holiday rituals.