La Diabla

Song Meaning

Andrés Calamaro's "La Diabla" isn't a straightforward narrative; it's a fragmented, impressionistic journey through memory, rock and roll mythology, and the bittersweet realities of life. The opening lines immediately plunge us into a world where rock music is almost a forbidden knowledge, a secret language whispered from "detrás" (behind). "La Diabla" (The Devil) herself isn't necessarily evil; instead, she represents temptation, allure, and perhaps the dangerous edge that makes rock and roll so compelling. Her "brillo en el pasillo" (shine in the hallway) suggests a clandestine meeting, a gateway to something exciting and potentially destructive. The song's middle verses drift into more abstract territory. References to a "brigada de un barrio del sur" (brigade from a southern neighborhood) and "gaucho de Güemes" evoke a sense of Argentinian identity and a connection to the streets. The line "O you know who for you know what" adds an air of mystery, hinting at unspoken understandings and shared experiences. Calamaro's mention of his heart being "papel" (paper) that didn't demolish a hotel carries a weight of disappointment, implying a vulnerability masked by a rock star persona. The image of someone hanging from branches is particularly haunting, suggesting a loss or betrayal that deeply affected him. The final verses become even more surreal, with a "plato azul" (blue plate) sprouting in Arados. This could symbolize a moment of unexpected beauty or a shift in perspective amidst the chaos. The line "La nena era un bombón" (The girl was a knockout) and his affection for her mother add a touch of tenderness to the song. The closing lines, "Yo fui (Camello) líder (Y estrella de rock) y rock'n'roll star" (I was (Camel) leader (And rock star) and rock'n'roll star), are both boastful and self-aware. "Camello" (Camel) being a reference to a cigarette brand, this can be interpreted as Calamaro acknowledging the image he has created for himself, while still hinting at the struggles he has faced. Ultimately, "La Diabla" is a complex and evocative exploration of memory, desire, and the enduring power of rock and roll.