Amarroto (feat. Alberto Echagüe)

Juan D'arienzo's song 'Amarroto,' featuring Alberto Echagüe, is a poignant tango that delves into the life of a man who has spent his years in relentless toil and isolation. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who has dedicated his life to hard work, avoiding pleasures and social interactions. The term 'amarroto' refers to someone who is miserly or stingy, and this character is depicted as someone who has never indulged in the simple joys of life, such as enjoying a drink or a coffee, or even engaging in friendships and romantic relationships.

The song's narrative highlights the protagonist's monotonous routine, where he works tirelessly from dawn to dusk, saving every penny he earns. His life is devoid of any form of entertainment or leisure, except for the occasional visit to the cinema, which he only indulges in if he can get in for free. The lyrics also touch upon his lack of social connections, emphasizing that he has no friends and lives by the philosophy that 'the lone ox licks itself well,' suggesting a belief in self-reliance and isolation.

As the song progresses, it reveals a twist in the protagonist's life. Despite his lifelong frugality, he ends up in a relationship with an older woman, who could be old enough to be his grandmother. This relationship seems to be his only source of affection, yet he continues to hoard his money, allowing her to live a life of pretense as a 'great princess.' The song concludes with a reflection on the futility of his miserly ways, questioning the purpose of his existence and the value of his amassed wealth, as 'there are no pockets in a shroud' when it comes time to depart from this world.