El Tata Esta Viejo (Zamba)

In 'El Tata Esta Viejo (Zamba),' Ruben Alberto Benegas crafts a poignant narrative that delves into the themes of aging, memory, and the inevitable passage of time. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of an elderly man, referred to as 'tata,' who is struggling with the physical limitations that come with old age. The imagery of him struggling to roll a cigarette and the trembling of the lit cigarette in his lips evoke a sense of fragility and vulnerability. This is further emphasized by the comparison to a 'tucu-tucu,' a small rodent known for its timid nature, highlighting the stark contrast between the tata's past vigor and his current frailty.

The song also reflects on the tata's past, reminiscing about his younger days when he was strong and robust, likened to sturdy trees like the tala and ñandubay. This nostalgic reflection serves to underscore the sorrow and sense of loss felt by the narrator as they witness the decline of someone they once saw as invincible. The comparison of the tata to a 'sauce' (willow tree) that is now bent and curved under the weight of time is a powerful metaphor for the inevitable decline that comes with aging.

Moreover, the song touches on the fear of loss and the hope for a peaceful end. The narrator expresses a heartfelt plea to God, asking for the tata's life to end gently, like a cigarette that goes out on its own. This request for a serene passing reflects a deep love and respect for the tata, wishing him a dignified and painless departure. The repetition of the lines about the tata's past strength and current frailty reinforces the emotional weight of the song, making it a touching tribute to the complexities of aging and the enduring bonds of family.