Te llaman Malevo

Homero Expósito's "Te llaman Malevo" is a poignant tango that tells the story of a man whose life is marked by hardship and heartbreak. The song's title, 'Malevo,' refers to a tough, streetwise man, often associated with the rough neighborhoods of Buenos Aires. The lyrics paint a picture of a man born into poverty ('un barrio con malvón y luna'), who worked hard from a young age ('desde pibe fue poniendo el hombro') to maintain a positive outlook ('su sonrisa buena'). However, the 'salt of time' (a metaphor for life's hardships) and a failed love affair leave him bitter and alone.

The chorus emphasizes the transformation of the protagonist from a hardworking individual to a 'malevo' who drowns his sorrows and regrets in alcohol ('se agrandaron tus hazañas con las copas de ginebra'). The repetition of 'por ella' (for her) underscores that his downfall is due to the woman who left him, and his actions are driven by a mix of love and spite. The final stanza suggests a tragic end for the malevo, hinting at a violent act ('con el cuchillo deshojó la espera') and ultimately his death ('se mató por ella'), which can be interpreted both literally and metaphorically as the death of his spirit or hope.

The song is a classic example of the tango genre, which often explores themes of love, loss, and the struggles of the lower classes. Homero Expósito, a renowned Argentine lyricist and poet, was known for his ability to weave complex emotions into his tangos, and 'Te llaman Malevo' is no exception. It's a narrative that captures the essence of the malevo archetype, reflecting the cultural context of Argentina's urban landscape and the emotional depth of tango music.