Llegó Borracho El Borracho
José Alfredo Jiménez
The Tragic Tale of Revelry and Misunderstanding
The song "Llegó Borracho El Borracho" by José Alfredo Jiménez, a celebrated Mexican singer-songwriter known for his rancheras and contributions to the mariachi genre, tells a vivid story of intoxication and its dire consequences. The lyrics paint a picture of a drunk man, referred to as 'el borracho,' who arrives at a bar demanding tequila. His request for credit to pay for the drinks leads to an unexpected turn of events when the bartender suggests they go to another bar to continue drinking.
As the night progresses, the drunk and the bartender engage in a drinking challenge, with the stakes being money for whoever collapses first. The atmosphere is described as festive, with mariachis and songwriters entertaining the crowd, yet there's an ominous feeling likened to being close to hell. The revelry takes a dark turn when the drunk declares that life is worthless, prompting the bartender to reveal he is armed and willing to defend himself. The argument escalates into a gunfight, resulting in both men shooting each other and dying, their arms crossed in a final, tragic embrace.
The song serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of excessive drinking and the misunderstandings that can arise from it. It also reflects on the value of life and the suddenness with which it can be taken away. The narrative is a poignant reminder of the consequences that can stem from a mix of alcohol, pride, and firearms, culminating in a senseless loss of life over a 'mal entendimiento' or misunderstanding.