La gallina dijo eureka

Les Luthiers, a renowned Argentine comedy-musical group, masterfully blend humor and music in their song 'La gallina dijo eureka.' The song is a satirical take on the challenges parents face when answering their children's endless and often complex questions. The narrative begins with a humorous monologue advising parents to always tell their children the truth, albeit in a way they can understand. This sets the stage for a series of increasingly absurd and funny explanations, highlighting the often convoluted ways adults try to simplify the world for kids.

The song's lyrics revolve around a curious child asking why a hen said 'Eureka.' The parent attempts to explain, using increasingly elaborate and humorous metaphors. The hen, surprised and delighted by laying an egg, becomes a symbol of joy and discovery. This mirrors the famous story of Archimedes, who exclaimed 'Eureka!' upon discovering the principle of buoyancy. The parent’s explanations become more complex, touching on themes of happiness, the beauty of having children, and even scientific principles like buoyancy and plant biology.

The comedic genius of Les Luthiers shines through as they juxtapose simple, childlike curiosity with sophisticated, often scientific explanations. This not only entertains but also subtly critiques the sometimes overly complicated ways adults communicate with children. The song ends on a humorous note, with the child’s persistent questioning leading to the realization that hens, in reality, do not speak. This playful yet insightful piece underscores the importance of curiosity, the joy of discovery, and the sometimes absurd lengths to which we go to explain the world to the young minds around us.