El explicado

Les Luthiers, an Argentine musical comedy group, are known for their clever and humorous takes on various subjects, often blending music with satire. 'El explicado' is a prime example of their unique style, where they use humor to explore and explain elements of Argentine folklore. The song is presented as a humorous narrative about Cantalicio Luna, a folklorist who humorously 'explains' traditional terms and customs in a way that is both educational and entertaining.

The lyrics begin with a playful introduction of Cantalicio Luna, who is depicted as a somewhat bumbling character. The humor is evident as the narrator describes Luna's life and misadventures, such as his failed attempt at selling boots to horses and his ironic gratitude from the indigenous people he entertained during the conquest of the desert. This sets the stage for the main part of the song, where Luna explains various terms in a comically literal and detailed manner.

Throughout the song, Les Luthiers use a mix of traditional Argentine music and humorous explanations to create a satirical commentary on folklore and cultural heritage. For instance, the song humorously explains the use of 'rueditas pequeñas, metálicas, dentadas' (small, metallic, toothed wheels) as spurs for horses, and 'calzado de fibra de cáñamo' (hemp fiber footwear) as alpargatas (a type of traditional footwear). The song also pokes fun at the confusion and debates that can arise when discussing cultural terms, as seen in the playful argument about the origin of 'canelones' (cannelloni).

'El explicado' is a delightful blend of music, humor, and cultural commentary. It showcases Les Luthiers' talent for using satire to both entertain and educate, making complex cultural concepts accessible and enjoyable. The song not only entertains but also invites listeners to reflect on the richness and sometimes absurdity of cultural traditions.