Al mal tiempo buena cara by Ivo Pelay

Al mal tiempo buena cara is a Tango written by Ivo Pelay and composed by Enrique Rodríguez.

Story behind the Tango Al mal tiempo buena cara

“Al mal tiempo buena cara,” translates to “put on a brave face in bad times,” encapsulating the tango’s message of resilience and optimism despite hardships. The lyrics narrate the story of someone who, despite being financially broke, finds solace and happiness in laughter and hopeful prospects. This persona adopts an optimistic view, believing in the eventual salvation of their country and finding joy in simple, personal connections rather than material wealth.

Symbolism of Al mal tiempo buena cara

The repeated phrase “No tengo un mango, pero me río” symbolizes a defiance against financial despair through joy and laughter. The mention of pockets edged with black crepe traditionally signifies mourning, likely symbolizing the character’s financial “death” or ruin. However, the deceased nickel and its humorously formal “death certificate” also underline the theme of facing life’s trials with irreverent humor. This tangential way of coping reflects a broader cultural attitude towards economic difficulties, emphasizing emotional wealth over financial stability.

Al mal tiempo buena cara in historic Context

Created in Argentina in 1940, this tango emerges from a period marked by political and economic instability both locally and globally. During this time, Argentina was navigating the effects of the worldwide economic depression and the onset of World War II, which perhaps influenced the song’s themes of economic hardship and resilience. The references to public unrest, like the mango’s “general strike,” could mirror real societal tensions, reflecting a common person’s perspective in trying economic times.

Ivo Pelay

Ivo Pelay was an influential Argentine playwright and lyricist, renowned for his significant contributions to the theatre and music scenes in Argentina.