Acordate lo que fuiste by J. Guidi

Acordate lo que fuiste is a Tango written by J. Guidi and composed by Pedro Toscano.

Story behind the Tango Acordate lo que fuiste

Acordate lo que fuiste,” which translates to “Remember What You Were,” is imbued with themes of transformation and remembrance. Through the lyrics, J. Guidi portrays the poignant story of an individual who has left behind their humble beginnings and old neighborhood, ascending to a life amongst the society’s elite. The poet highlights the protagonist’s neglect of their origins and the heartache this causes to their family, who remain bound by their past and continue to suffer.

Symbolism of Acordate lo que fuiste

The use of contrasts and symbols in the tango, such as “gente de vento” (people of wind) versus the poor neighborhood, effectively juxtaposes the transient, perhaps insubstantial new life of the protagonist with the enduring, solid roots of their origin. This opposition creates a vivid picture of social mobility and personal loss. The lyrics “lloran tus viejos por tu permisión,” meaning “your elders weep for your permission,” intensifies the emotional conflict, underpinning the theme of familial ties and the unsolicited sacrifice made by those left behind.

Acordate lo que fuiste in historic Context

Composed in the late 1920s Argentina, a period marked by significant social and economic transitions, the tango resonates with the era’s collective consciousness. The year 1928 sits towards the end of the Argentine Patriotic League’s influence and amid Yrigoyen’s presidency, a time rife with social reform and urbanization efforts that saw vast migrations from rural areas to cities, and increasing European immigration. These shifts often resulted in cultural clashes and transformations, mirroring the personal upheaval experienced by the tango’s protagonist.

J. Guidi

J. Guidi was an Argentine lyricist known for his contributions to the tango genre, expressive of the social narrative of his time.