El Arte Del Buen Comer

Patricio Rey y Sus Redonditos de Ricota's song "El arte del buen comer" is a satirical commentary on social climbing and the superficiality of high society. The protagonist, Pituca, is depicted as someone who believes he is the best, symbolized by his belief that he has the best 'seat' or position. This metaphor extends to his materialistic pursuits, such as buying ivory from the Congo and naming his towel, which highlights his obsession with status symbols and luxury.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of Pituca's transformation from an unremarkable individual to someone who now enjoys the finer things in life. He surrounds himself with grand dames who exude a mix of sweetness and beastliness, adorned with rouge and laughter reminiscent of high society. This imagery underscores the artificiality and performative nature of his new social circle. The mention of Pituca's past, where he didn't attract love and had a mouth that smelled like an ashtray, contrasts sharply with his current persona, emphasizing the drastic change in his fortunes.

Pituca's audacious gamble, which led to his rise, is likened to a fierce gambler who never shows his full hand. This metaphor suggests that his success is built on cunning and deceit. The reference to eating the 'big apple' and not leaving a single seed symbolizes his voracious consumption and greed. The use of 'melodrama salt' without overdoing it hints at his ability to navigate the dramatic and often exaggerated world of high society with a certain finesse. Through this satirical lens, the song critiques the emptiness and pretentiousness of social climbing, revealing the hollowness behind the facade of wealth and status.