El Ciruja

Carlos Gardel's song 'El Ciruja' is a poignant narrative that delves into the life of a man who has experienced the highs and lows of the Buenos Aires underworld. The term 'ciruja' refers to a person who lives on the fringes of society, often involved in petty crime and scavenging. The song's protagonist reflects on his past with a mix of nostalgia and bitterness, as he revisits the places and memories that once defined his existence.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the protagonist's past life, filled with moments of carefree indulgence and criminal activities. He recalls the times when he would evade work, engage in pickpocketing, and gamble on horse races. These activities were a way of life for him, and he was deeply entrenched in the underworld. The mention of 'tiradores' (police) and 'manyamiento' (recognition) highlights the constant cat-and-mouse game he played with law enforcement.

A significant part of the song revolves around a woman who played a crucial role in his life. She was a 'mosaico diquero' (a stylish woman) who worked as a 'quemera' (a woman who sells stolen goods) and was the daughter of a 'curandera' (a healer or witch). Despite her tough exterior and criminal background, she was manipulated by a 'cafiolo' (a pimp) who exploited her. The protagonist's love for her led to a violent confrontation with the pimp, resulting in the protagonist's imprisonment. Now free but without the woman he loved, he reflects on his past with sorrow and regret, symbolized by his tears as he remembers the 'quemera' and the life they once shared.

The song is a powerful exploration of themes such as love, loss, and the harsh realities of life on the margins of society. Gardel's emotive delivery and the evocative lyrics combine to create a deeply moving portrayal of a man haunted by his past and the choices he made.