Cambalache

Francisco Canaro's 'Cambalache' is a poignant critique of societal decay and moral ambiguity, encapsulated in the vibrant and often melancholic tones of tango. The song, written in 1934 by Enrique Santos Discépolo, reflects on the chaotic and morally ambiguous nature of the 20th century, a theme that remains strikingly relevant today. The lyrics lament the pervasive corruption and the erosion of values, suggesting that the world has always been a 'porqueria' (a mess), from the year 506 to 2000 and beyond.

The song paints a vivid picture of a world where distinctions between right and wrong, good and bad, have become blurred. Canaro sings about a society where 'it is the same to be a decent person or a traitor, an ignorant or a wise man, a thief or a generous person.' This leveling of moral and social hierarchies is depicted as a 'cambalache,' a jumble or a swap meet, where everything and everyone is mixed together without respect for traditional values or roles. The imagery of the Bible crying against a heater poignantly illustrates the clash between sacred values and mundane, often corrupt, realities.

'Cambalache' also touches on the futility of striving for honesty and hard work in a world that rewards deceit and opportunism. The line 'the one who doesn't cry doesn't get fed, and the one who doesn't steal is a fool' underscores the cynical view that survival in such a society requires abandoning moral principles. The song's enduring popularity speaks to its universal message and its ability to resonate with listeners across different eras and cultures, reflecting ongoing struggles with corruption, inequality, and moral ambiguity.