El regreso
Les Luthiers
A Nostalgic Return: The Humorous Journey of Les Luthiers in 'El regreso'
Les Luthiers, an Argentine comedy-musical group known for their clever wordplay and satirical humor, present a whimsical narrative in their song 'El regreso.' The song features a dialogue between two characters, Carlitos and his friend, as they reminisce about their past and express their excitement about returning to a beloved city after twenty long years. The humor is evident from the start, with playful exchanges and exaggerated statements about the passage of time, such as describing twenty years as 'trece, catorce meses' (thirteen, fourteen months).
The song delves into themes of nostalgia and regret, as the characters reflect on their past mistakes and lost loves. The dialogue is filled with humorous anecdotes about their romantic misadventures, including Carlitos' humorous lament about his failed attempts with various women. The characters' banter highlights their self-deprecating humor and the absurdity of their situations, such as Carlitos' exaggerated claim of being a 'seductor experto' (expert seducer) and the comical description of Encarnación as 'la encarnación de lo feo' (the embodiment of ugliness).
Despite the humor, there is an underlying sentimentality in their longing to return to a place where they once felt happy. The song's chorus, 'Vuelvo, vuelvo, estoy volviendo a París,' captures the essence of their emotional journey. The characters' return to Paris symbolizes a desire to reconnect with their past and find solace in familiar surroundings. The song's blend of humor and nostalgia creates a poignant yet entertaining narrative that resonates with listeners, showcasing Les Luthiers' unique ability to combine comedy with heartfelt storytelling.