Cuentos Argentos

Ivan Noble's song "Cuentos Argentos" offers a satirical and poignant commentary on contemporary Argentine society by reimagining classic fairy tale characters in modern, often bleak, circumstances. The song opens with a vivid image of a woman scavenging for cardboard, a common sight in many Argentine cities, highlighting the pervasive poverty. The birds, instead of singing naturally, are reduced to mimicking pop songs, symbolizing a loss of authenticity and joy in everyday life.

The lyrics continue to subvert traditional fairy tales, presenting Snow White as a woman dealing with an unplanned pregnancy and Cinderella as someone who rejects traditional femininity by wearing sneakers instead of glass slippers. These modernized characters reflect the struggles and defiance of real people against societal expectations. The song also touches on the futility of war through the character of Mambrú, who loses an ear and is denied the chance to become a pop star, symbolizing the lost dreams and opportunities of many.

Noble's use of humor and irony is evident in the portrayal of Little Red Riding Hood as a rebellious figure who kidnaps her grandmother and teams up with the wolf, and in the depiction of Peter Pan squandering money on male escorts. These absurd scenarios underscore the disillusionment and escapism prevalent in society. The recurring chorus questions the endings of these "Argentine tales," reflecting a broader uncertainty about the future in a country marked by economic instability and social upheaval. By blending familiar stories with contemporary issues, Noble creates a powerful narrative that resonates with listeners, urging them to reflect on their own realities.