Ataque de Tos

Joaquín Sabina's song 'Ataque de Tos' is a masterful blend of humor, irony, and social commentary. The lyrics narrate three pivotal moments in the protagonist's life, each disrupted by an untimely coughing fit. The first verse describes the protagonist's first communion, a significant religious milestone. Dressed in his best attire and filled with anticipation, he is about to receive the sacrament when a violent cough prevents him from doing so. This moment sets the tone for the song, highlighting the unpredictability of life and the humor in its interruptions.

The second verse takes us to the protagonist's wedding day, another major life event. As he stands at the altar, ready to marry Mari Cruz, a coughing fit once again disrupts the ceremony. This verse not only continues the theme of life's unpredictability but also adds a layer of emotional complexity. The protagonist's joy and anticipation are palpable, making the interruption even more poignant and humorous.

The final verse shifts to the protagonist's deathbed, surrounded by family members who are more interested in his inheritance than his well-being. As he attempts to sign his will, a final coughing fit ends his life. This verse serves as a biting commentary on human nature and familial relationships, revealing the selfish motives that often lie beneath the surface. Sabina's use of the recurring coughing fit as a metaphor for life's unexpected twists and turns is both clever and deeply resonant, making 'Ataque de Tos' a song that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.