Esta Noche Me Emborracho

Enrique Santos Discépolo's song 'Esta Noche Me Emborracho' is a poignant tango that delves deep into the themes of lost love, regret, and the ravages of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who encounters a former lover in a state of disrepair, both physically and morally. The woman, once the object of his intense passion and the cause of his downfall, is now a shadow of her former self, described as 'sola, fané, descangayada' (alone, worn out, and broken). This stark transformation evokes a sense of shock and sorrow in the narrator, who is overwhelmed by the sight of her degradation.

The song's narrative is rich with metaphors and cultural references. The woman is likened to a 'gallo desplumao' (a plucked rooster), emphasizing her vulnerability and loss of dignity. The narrator's reflection on his past actions reveals a deep sense of regret and self-reproach. He recalls how he betrayed his own values and loved ones for her, only to be left destitute and friendless. The phrase 'me hice ruin y pechador' (I became vile and a scoundrel) underscores the extent of his moral decline.

The chorus of the song captures the narrator's despair and his desire to escape the painful memories. He resolves to drown his sorrows in alcohol, declaring 'Esta noche me emborracho bien' (Tonight I will get very drunk). This act of self-destruction is a coping mechanism to avoid confronting the harsh reality of his past and the irreversible changes brought by time. The song's melancholic tone and evocative lyrics resonate with anyone who has experienced the anguish of lost love and the passage of time, making it a timeless piece in the tango repertoire.