¡Al Ladrón, Al Ladrón!

Joaquín Sabina's song "¡Al Ladrón, Al Ladrón!" paints a vivid picture of a once-celebrated pickpocket whose glory days are far behind him. The lyrics tell the story of an aging thief who is no longer the agile, cunning artist he once was. Sabina uses a conversational tone, almost as if he's speaking directly to the thief, recounting how the man’s skills have deteriorated with age. The song is filled with a sense of nostalgia and melancholy, as it reflects on the inevitable decline that comes with time.

The song opens with a reference to the thief's current state, suggesting that he is now preparing for a life in Caravanchel, a well-known prison in Spain. This sets the tone for the rest of the song, which is a lament for the lost elegance and skill of the thief. The mention of the thief's granddaughter witnessing his disgraceful exit from a cabaret adds a personal touch, highlighting the generational impact of his decline. The lyrics also touch on the physical toll that age has taken on him, with references to arthritis making it difficult for him to pick pockets as he once did.

Sabina contrasts the thief's past and present, reminiscing about the days when he had an exclusive clientele and left his mark with every heist. The song underscores the thief's frustration with the younger generation, who lack the finesse and respect for the 'art' of thievery. The thief's disdain for the use of violence, as opposed to skillful pickpocketing, further emphasizes his old-school values. The song ends on a somber note, lamenting how what was once considered an art has degenerated into something far less noble.

"¡Al Ladrón, Al Ladrón!" is a poignant reflection on aging, the passage of time, and the loss of skill and dignity. It captures the essence of a bygone era and the personal struggles of an individual coming to terms with his own decline.