Alma de bohemio by Juan Andrés Caruso

Alma de bohemio is a Tango written by Juan Andrés Caruso and composed by Roberto Firpo.

Story behind the Tango Alma de bohemio

“Alma de bohemio” (Bohemian Soul) captures the life of a dreamer and a wanderer who expresses his emotions and fantasies through song. The central character embraces the essence of a true bohemian, filled with love and joy, using his music to communicate not only his dreams but also his profound feelings of love and emotional desires that stem from his heart.

Symbolism of Alma de bohemio

The lyrics of “Alma de bohemio” feature rich symbolism, particularly in the portrayal of concepts such as dreaming and the celestial references such as talking to the stars (“a hablar me voy con las estrellas”). These elements signify the high aspirations and the deep introspection of the protagonist. Dreams and stars often represent idealism and guidance, reflecting the bohemian’s continual search for meaning and expression through his artistic endeavors. The use of phrases like “la loca poesía que hay en mi corazón” (the crazy poetry that’s in my heart) and “quiero acariciar y como una flor perfumar” (wants to caress and perfume like a flower) highlight the depth of his emotional and creative impulses, seeking to touch and beautify the world in his unique way.

Alma de bohemio in historic Context

Recorded in 1947, “Alma de bohemio” was composed in a post-war Argentina, a period marked by significant changes and the rise of complex social dynamics. The character of the bohemian can be seen as a metaphor for the freedom of expression and the ongoing cultural shifts occurring at the time. Tango itself, often a reflection of the common people’s sentiments, acts here as a vessel for personal and communal expression. The song’s emphasis on passion, depth of emotion, and a wandering lifestyle can also be interpreted as a reaction to the constraints and struggles of the time, proposing an artistic and almost transcendental response to societal challenges.

Juan Andrés Caruso

Juan Andrés Caruso was a notable Argentine lyricist known for his romantic and evocative tango lyrics that often captured the soul’s deep emotions and sentiments.