Cambichos

The song 'Cambichos' by Os Serranos is a vivid portrayal of the gaucho lifestyle, imbued with nostalgia and the pursuit of nocturnal pleasures. The lyrics paint a picture of a man who, struck by a deep longing, prepares his horse for a journey as the evening fades into the hills. This preparation is symbolic of the gaucho's readiness to embrace the adventures and emotions that the night brings.

As the night progresses, the tranquility of the moonlit plains gives rise to whispers and murmurs, which the singer refers to as 'cambichos,' a term that can denote secret or illicit love affairs. The gaucho's cloak ('pala') spreads like wings, indicating his eagerness to indulge in these fleeting romances. The song also describes a dance ('surungo') accompanied by the sound of an accordion ('cordeona'), where gazes from desiring women ('miradas querendonas') captivate the gaucho's soul. The diversity of women mentioned in the lyrics reflects the melting pot of cultures in the region.

As dawn approaches, the gaucho is left with only directions and memories ('rumos e recuerdos') to guide him. The song concludes with a reflection on the value of longing, suggesting that it is better to have experienced such yearning than to have never felt it at all. This sentiment underscores the gaucho's appreciation for the intensity of life's experiences, even if they are fleeting or tinged with melancholy.