Manuel Darío

Les Luthiers, an Argentine comedy-musical group known for their clever wordplay and satirical humor, deliver a delightful blend of absurdity and wit in their song 'Manuel Darío.' The song is a playful pastiche of romantic clichés and societal observations, wrapped in a humorous package that both entertains and provokes thought.

The lyrics begin with a seemingly straightforward declaration of love, 'Cuando te veo me late el corazón,' which translates to 'When I see you, my heart beats.' This line is repeated for emphasis, only to be humorously undercut by the observation that the heart also beats when the beloved is not seen, highlighting the absurdity of romantic hyperbole. The song continues to play with romantic tropes, such as the exaggerated suffering caused by the beloved, who is revealed to be the singer's dentist, adding a layer of comedic irony.

As the song progresses, it shifts to a series of whimsical and nonsensical verses, such as the singer's love for a woman from Ohio and the eclectic nature of women from various U.S. states. These verses are punctuated with the playful 'shalalalá' refrain, adding to the song's lighthearted and mocking tone. The final verses take a more satirical turn, addressing serious global issues like war, poverty, and destruction, only to juxtapose them with the triviality of personal romantic woes. This contrast serves to highlight the absurdity of human concerns and the often ridiculous nature of our emotional responses.

'Les Luthiers' use of humor and satire in 'Manuel Darío' not only entertains but also invites listeners to reflect on the absurdities of love and life. The song's clever wordplay and unexpected twists make it a memorable and thought-provoking piece that showcases the group's unique talent for blending comedy with music.