A Don Nicanor Paredes

Jorge Luis Borges, a renowned Argentine writer, poet, and essayist, pays homage to Don Nicanor Paredes in this evocative song. The lyrics transport us to the bygone era of Buenos Aires, specifically the Palermo neighborhood, which was once a rough and tumble area. Borges paints a vivid picture of Don Nicanor, a figure who embodies the spirit of the old Palermo, with his firm stride, slightly graying mustache, and the ever-present knife near his heart. This knife symbolizes the violence and danger that were part and parcel of life in that era, hinting at past altercations and the harsh realities of survival.

The song delves into the character of Don Nicanor, portraying him as a caudillo, or leader, during the turbulent times of the late 19th century. Borges' recitation highlights Don Nicanor's ability to command respect and maintain order among the knife-wielding populace. His presence was enough to quell disputes, whether through a shout or the use of his talero, a traditional whip. This depiction underscores the rough justice and the code of honor that governed the streets of Palermo, a stark contrast to the modern, gentrified neighborhood it has become.

In the final verses, Borges reflects on Don Nicanor's death and the fading memories of that lost Palermo. He poignantly questions what Don Nicanor would do in a heaven devoid of the elements that defined his life: horses, wine, and the card games of retruco and flor. This contemplation serves as a lament for the passing of an era and the inevitable changes that time brings. Borges' song is not just a tribute to a man but also a nostalgic ode to a vanished world, capturing the essence of a time when life was raw, immediate, and governed by its own set of rules.