Malevaje

Enrique Santos Discépolo's song "Malevaje" delves into the profound transformation of a man who was once a feared and respected figure in his neighborhood, known for his toughness and bravado. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who has been utterly changed by love, to the point where he no longer recognizes himself. The opening lines, "Decí, por Dios, ¿qué me has dao, que estoy tan cambiao, no sé más quien soy?" (Tell me, for God's sake, what have you given me, that I am so changed, I no longer know who I am?), set the tone for the entire song, highlighting the bewilderment and vulnerability that love has brought into his life.

The song uses the term "malevaje," which refers to a group of tough guys or gangsters, to emphasize the protagonist's previous identity. He laments how the malevaje now looks at him with confusion, unable to understand his drastic change. The once fearless and aggressive man is now seen losing his "cartel de guapo" (reputation as a tough guy), as he is "vencido y maniao en tu corazón" (defeated and bound in your heart). This metaphor of being bound by love illustrates the powerful and often uncontrollable nature of romantic feelings, which can render even the strongest individuals vulnerable.

The imagery of the woman passing by "tangueando altanera" (tangoing haughtily) with a deep and sensual rhythm captures the moment of his downfall. Her presence alone is enough to strip him of his courage and desire to maintain his tough persona. The song poignantly describes how he has lost everything, even the small symbol of his past life, "ni el pucho en la oreja" (not even the cigarette in his ear). The final lines reveal the depth of his transformation, as he contemplates actions that were once unthinkable for him, like going to church and praying. This dramatic shift underscores the theme of love's transformative power, capable of changing a person's core identity and values.