Ruleta
Los Piojos
The Gamble of Love and Fate in 'Ruleta'
The song 'Ruleta' by Los Piojos, an Argentine rock band known for their blend of rock, reggae, and blues influences, delves into themes of fate, chance, and the emotional risks inherent in love and life. The lyrics metaphorically compare the unpredictability of love to a roulette game, with the singer expressing a willingness to take risks for the sake of passion and desire.
The opening lines set a scene of intimacy and vulnerability, with the singer's skin being 'scratched' in Comodoro, a reference to a city in Argentina, which could symbolize a harsh journey or experience. The 'green eyes' serve as an oasis, a respite in the midst of a 'cruel desert,' suggesting a deep need for the love and comfort they represent. The colors red, green, and black are used to symbolize blood, freedom, and bad luck, respectively, painting a vivid picture of the emotional stakes involved.
As the song progresses, the roulette metaphor expands to encompass life itself. The singer no longer believes in chance, indicating a belief that events are predestined or that they are the result of one's own actions. The mention of 'Gracias caja de empleados, propina especial' could be a sarcastic thank you to a system that takes more than it gives, hinting at a broader social commentary. The repetition of the phrase 'Como vas girando voy' (As you spin, I go) captures the essence of being caught up in the whirlwind of fate and emotion, constantly in motion and uncertain of where one will land.