Milonga Del Consorcio

Edmundo Rivero's 'Milonga Del Consorcio' paints a vivid picture of life in an urban apartment building, or 'consorcio,' contrasting it with the simpler times of living in a 'conventillo' (a communal living space). The song begins with the narrator reminiscing about his birthplace in a conventillo on Olavarría Street, setting a nostalgic tone. As the song progresses, he describes his move to a more formal apartment complex to 'appear in the directory,' symbolizing a step towards a more structured, perhaps superficial societal status.

The lyrics detail the daily trivialities and annoyances of living in a consorcio, from endless meetings about minor issues like hot and cold water to the bureaucracy and impersonality of modern living, represented by the absentee administrator. The mention of colorful carpets, plants, and a noisy Pekingese dog adds a touch of humor and paints a vivid picture of communal living spaces cluttered with personal touches that fail to mask the underlying impersonal interactions.

Ultimately, the song reflects a longing for the past and a critique of modern living. The narrator expresses a desire to return to the simpler, more genuine life of the conventillo, despite the apparent social elevation associated with the consorcio. This tension between past and present, authenticity and superficiality, is a central theme, offering a poignant commentary on the changes in societal structures and personal connections in urban settings.