El Sabio

Héctor Lavoe's song 'El Sabio' is a sharp critique of those who pretend to be wise but lack true understanding and happiness. The lyrics are a direct address to someone who Lavoe believes is putting on airs of wisdom without possessing genuine insight. The repeated refrain 'De sabio no tiene na'' (He has nothing of a wise man) underscores the central theme: the person in question is a fraud, more concerned with appearances than with true knowledge or happiness.

Lavoe's lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and colloquial expressions that paint a picture of someone who is all talk and no substance. He mocks the person's pretensions, saying that their so-called wisdom could be bought at a pharmacy ('el plante que tú te das lo venden en la botica'). This line suggests that the person's wisdom is as artificial and easily obtained as a common product. Lavoe also highlights the person's lack of happiness, despite their supposed wisdom, pointing out that true wisdom should bring contentment, not misery.

The song also touches on themes of authenticity and betrayal. Lavoe accuses the person of being two-faced, friendly to his face but stabbing him in the back ('Por alante eres mi amigo, por atrá' la puñalá'). This betrayal is contrasted with the person's public persona of being wise and knowledgeable. Lavoe's use of the word 'carnaval' (carnival) suggests that the person's wisdom is just a temporary, superficial show, much like the masks worn during a carnival. The song ends on a note of irony, with Lavoe suggesting that the only place the person's wisdom will be acknowledged is on their tombstone.

'El Sabio' is a powerful commentary on the difference between true wisdom and the mere appearance of it. Lavoe's biting lyrics and vivid imagery make it clear that he values authenticity and genuine understanding over superficial displays of knowledge.