Señor Kioskero
Intoxicados
The Desperation Behind the Crime in 'Señor Kioskero'
The song 'Señor Kioskero' by Intoxicados, an Argentine rock band known for their raw and direct approach to social issues, narrates a story of a desperate individual committing a robbery. The lyrics are presented as a dialogue between the robber and the kiosk owner, with the former explaining his motivations for the crime. The robber's confession that his family lacks employment and his own aversion to work leads him to this extreme measure of demanding money. The song's narrative is a reflection on the socio-economic struggles that drive people to criminal acts out of necessity or a perceived lack of alternatives.
The song also touches on themes of guilt and accountability. The robber expresses a sense of regret, acknowledging the wrongness of his actions and even promising to return the money if he ever manages to get back on his feet. This complexity adds depth to the character, suggesting that the line between right and wrong can become blurred when faced with dire circumstances. The mention of taking the video recording of the robbery could be interpreted as a metaphor for wanting to erase the crime from history, as if to remove the stain it leaves on his conscience.
Intoxicados uses this song to paint a picture of the societal pressures and personal justifications that can lead to criminal behavior. The narrative is a commentary on the desperation that can arise from poverty and unemployment, and the moral dilemmas that ensue when survival is at stake. The song's straightforward storytelling and the band's gritty musical style serve to emphasize the raw reality of the situation, making 'Señor Kioskero' a poignant exploration of the human condition in the face of hardship.