Cambalache

Enrique Santos Discépolo's 'Cambalache' is a poignant and cynical commentary on the state of society, both in the past and present. The song opens with the assertion that the world has always been a mess, filled with corruption, deceit, and moral ambiguity. Discépolo highlights that these issues are not confined to any specific era, as they were present in the year 506 and continue to persist in the modern age. This timelessness underscores the pervasive nature of human flaws and societal corruption.

The lyrics delve into the moral decay of the 20th century, describing it as a time of 'insolent evil' where traditional values have been upended. Discépolo paints a picture of a world where distinctions between right and wrong, educated and ignorant, and honest and deceitful have blurred. The metaphor of a 'merengue'—a messy, chaotic dance—aptly captures the sense of disorder and confusion that pervades society. The imagery of everyone being 'manoseados' (handled or groped) in the same mud further emphasizes the loss of moral clarity and the pervasive corruption.

Discépolo's use of cultural references, such as Stavisky, Don Bosco, and Napoleon, alongside common figures like a mattress maker or a stowaway, illustrates the indiscriminate nature of this moral collapse. The song's refrain, 'Siglo veinte, cambalache, problemático y febril,' encapsulates the chaotic and feverish nature of the 20th century. The phrase 'el que no llora, no mama, y el que no afana es un gil' suggests a world where only the ruthless and unscrupulous succeed, further highlighting the erosion of ethical standards. Ultimately, 'Cambalache' serves as a powerful critique of societal values, urging listeners to reflect on the moral state of their world.