Cambalache

Julio Sosa's 'Cambalache' is a poignant and cynical reflection on the state of society, capturing the disillusionment and moral decay of the 20th century. The song opens with a stark declaration that the world has always been a mess, filled with corruption, deceit, and inequality. Sosa emphasizes that these issues are not new, tracing them back to the year 510 and projecting them into the future. The lyrics suggest that the 20th century, in particular, has seen an unprecedented display of insolent evil, where everyone is entangled in a chaotic and morally ambiguous 'merengue,' a metaphor for the messy and intertwined nature of human existence.

The song's chorus underscores the idea that traditional moral distinctions have collapsed. Sosa laments that it no longer matters whether one is honest or a traitor, educated or ignorant, as everyone is treated the same. This leveling of moral and social hierarchies is depicted as a grave injustice, where the immoral have brought everyone down to the same level. The imagery of a disrespectful shop window, where historical and cultural figures are indiscriminately mixed, further illustrates the loss of respect and order in society. The mention of the Bible crying next to a water heater poignantly captures the absurdity and tragedy of this moral confusion.

'Cambalache' also critiques the survival mentality that has taken hold in this problematic and feverish century. The phrase 'el que no llora no mama' (those who don't cry don't get fed) and 'el que no afana es un gil' (those who don't steal are fools) reflect a world where only the ruthless and unscrupulous thrive. Sosa's call to 'hacete a un lao' (step aside) and his assertion that no one cares if you were born honest highlight the futility of trying to maintain integrity in such a corrupt environment. The song ultimately paints a bleak picture of a world where hard work and virtue are rendered meaningless, equating the laborer with the criminal and the healer with the outlaw.