Cambalache

Julio Iglesias' rendition of 'Cambalache' is a poignant and cynical commentary on the state of the world, originally penned by the Argentine tango composer Enrique Santos Discépolo in 1934. The song's lyrics paint a bleak picture of society, suggesting that corruption, deceit, and moral decay are timeless and universal issues. The opening lines set the tone by declaring that the world has always been a mess, from the year 506 to the year 2000, emphasizing the persistence of human flaws across centuries.

The song delves into the idea that in the 20th century, moral values have become indistinguishable, and societal roles have lost their meaning. It laments the erosion of ethical standards, where being honest or deceitful, wise or ignorant, generous or a swindler, all seem to hold the same value. This leveling of moral distinctions is portrayed as a significant downfall, where the immoral have equalized everyone, making it impossible to discern right from wrong. The lyrics use vivid metaphors, such as comparing life to a chaotic shop window ('vidriera irrespetuosa') where everything is mixed up, and the Bible crying against a water heater, symbolizing the clash between sacred values and mundane, material concerns.

The chorus reinforces the song's central theme of disillusionment with the modern world. It suggests that in a society where 'the one who doesn't cry doesn't get fed' and 'the one who doesn't steal is a fool,' survival often requires compromising one's integrity. The song's fatalistic tone is underscored by the idea that everyone, regardless of their actions or moral standing, will ultimately end up in the same place ('in the oven'). This nihilistic view reflects a deep sense of frustration and resignation, urging listeners to recognize the futility of striving for moral superiority in a world where such distinctions have become meaningless.