El Sensei

The song 'El Sensei' by Las Pastillas del Abuelo, an Argentine rock band known for their storytelling lyrics and blend of rock, blues, and other genres, narrates a communal ritual centered around the preparation and sharing of a marijuana joint. The lyrics describe a group of friends gathered in anticipation, waiting for the one among them, referred to as 'El Sensei' or 'Hernán,' who is skilled at rolling the joint. The term 'Sensei,' which means 'teacher' in Japanese, is used metaphorically to denote his expertise in this context.

The song unfolds as a celebration of camaraderie and the shared experience of smoking together. The detailed description of Hernán's actions, from rolling to lighting the joint, and the admiration from his friends, highlights the ritualistic and almost sacred nature of the act within their circle. The lyrics also touch upon the anticipation and the sensory experience associated with smoking, such as the 'watering mouth' and the desire to start the 'carioca,' a term that could refer to a game or a dance, adding to the festive atmosphere.

As the song progresses, it also delves into the end of the ritual, where the joint is almost finished, and the group contemplates the next steps, such as getting something to eat, often referred to as 'munchies' after smoking marijuana. The song closes with a return to reality, but the sense of community and the shared pleasure of the experience remain central themes. 'El Sensei' is a narrative that captures a moment in time, a slice of life that celebrates the simple joys of friendship and shared indulgence.