The narrative follows a man who chooses to marry during a period of extreme inflation.
Στης ακρίβειας τον καιρό – Σκωπτικό αποκριάτικο (ΜΜΘ 2003)
The traditional satirical Greek Carnival song (During the Times of High Prices) is a classic example of folk satire that remains culturally relevant during the Carnival season. Rooted in the folk traditions of Central Greece (Phocis) , it humorously critiques the social and economic pressures of its time through a narrative of a disastrous marriage. Background and Significance
: The husband eventually loses patience, using a stick ("ksylo") to mockingly "grant" her requests by chasing her around. Popular Interpretations
: Despite the "times of misery," she demands expensive items like a dress with embroidery ( gaïtani ), a hat with a veil, and bow-tied shoes.
The song has been preserved and popularized by notable folk researchers and singers, most prominently , whose 2003 live recording at the Thessaloniki Concert Hall remains a definitive version. Summary of Attributes
The song belongs to the category of (mocking or satirical) Carnival songs. It is traditionally performed as a Syrto Kalamatiano in 7/8 rhythm. Through its humorous lyrics, it reflects the common people's coping mechanism—satirizing their own poverty and the high cost of living (akriveia). Lyrical Themes and Narrative
: The central gag is the new wife's insatiable appetite. On the first night, she eats a whole ewe; on the second, an ewe and a cow.
The narrative follows a man who chooses to marry during a period of extreme inflation.
Στης ακρίβειας τον καιρό – Σκωπτικό αποκριάτικο (ΜΜΘ 2003)
The traditional satirical Greek Carnival song (During the Times of High Prices) is a classic example of folk satire that remains culturally relevant during the Carnival season. Rooted in the folk traditions of Central Greece (Phocis) , it humorously critiques the social and economic pressures of its time through a narrative of a disastrous marriage. Background and Significance
: The husband eventually loses patience, using a stick ("ksylo") to mockingly "grant" her requests by chasing her around. Popular Interpretations
: Despite the "times of misery," she demands expensive items like a dress with embroidery ( gaïtani ), a hat with a veil, and bow-tied shoes.
The song has been preserved and popularized by notable folk researchers and singers, most prominently , whose 2003 live recording at the Thessaloniki Concert Hall remains a definitive version. Summary of Attributes
The song belongs to the category of (mocking or satirical) Carnival songs. It is traditionally performed as a Syrto Kalamatiano in 7/8 rhythm. Through its humorous lyrics, it reflects the common people's coping mechanism—satirizing their own poverty and the high cost of living (akriveia). Lyrical Themes and Narrative
: The central gag is the new wife's insatiable appetite. On the first night, she eats a whole ewe; on the second, an ewe and a cow.