Qué vachaché

Enrique Santos Discépolo's 'Qué vachaché' is a poignant tango that delves into the harsh realities of survival in a world where money and materialism reign supreme. The song's protagonist is fed up with the idealistic and naive views of another character, urging them to abandon their moralistic stance and face the brutal truth: in this world, money is the ultimate power. The lyrics are a stark commentary on the societal values of the time, reflecting a deep cynicism about the possibility of genuine change or redemption.

The song opens with a forceful rejection, telling the other character to leave and never return. The protagonist is exasperated by the constant struggle for basic necessities and the empty, foolish talk of fixing the world. This sets the stage for the central theme of the song: the futility of idealism in the face of a corrupt and materialistic society. The repeated emphasis on 'plata' (money) underscores the idea that financial gain is the only way to secure a decent life, friends, and social status.

Discépolo's lyrics also highlight the erosion of traditional values such as honor, decency, and love. The line 'El verdadero amor se ahogó en la sopa' (True love drowned in the soup) is particularly striking, suggesting that even the most noble of human emotions have been sacrificed for survival. The song's cynical tone reaches its peak with the assertion that 'Vale Jesús lo mismo que el ladrón' (Jesus is worth the same as the thief), indicating a complete collapse of moral distinctions in a world driven by greed. Through 'Qué vachaché,' Discépolo paints a bleak yet compelling picture of a society where money is the ultimate arbiter of worth and survival.