Cruz diablo

“Cruz Diablo” by Patricio Rey y Sus Redonditos de Ricota is a vivid narrative that delves into the life of a character named Zippo. The song paints a picture of a man who is on a self-destructive path, symbolized by his reckless drive towards hell. The lyrics describe Zippo as someone who has always struggled, never quite able to get ahead, and whose life is marred by bad luck and poor decisions. His journey is marked by a series of misfortunes, and he seems to be cursed, as indicated by the phrase “Cruz Diablo,” which he shouts out of sheer frustration and resignation.

The song uses rich metaphors and cultural references to deepen the narrative. For instance, Zippo’s inability to “repartir sus fichas” (distribute his chips) suggests a life of missed opportunities and bad gambles. The reference to “El Himno de Tangópolis” hints at a world where his adventures are doomed to fail, a place where his efforts are futile. The imagery of Zippo’s mouth burning with curses and his body covered in bruises paints a stark picture of his suffering and the harsh reality he faces. The line “su rocanrol sangra oídos” (his rock and roll bleeds ears) suggests that his rebellious spirit and lifestyle are both a source of pain and a form of expression.

Patricio Rey y Sus Redonditos de Ricota, known for their poetic and often cryptic lyrics, use Zippo’s story to comment on broader themes of societal neglect and personal downfall. The song reflects on how individuals like Zippo, who are marginalized and beaten down by life, often find themselves in a cycle of despair. The metaphor of too many cooks spoiling the soup (“Son tantos los cocineros que joden la sopa”) can be seen as a critique of societal systems that fail to support those in need, instead contributing to their downfall. Zippo’s tragic end, with his laughter filled with sulfur, symbolizes a life consumed by bitterness and anger, ultimately leading to his demise.