Amargura by Alfredo Le Pera

Amargura is a Tango written by Alfredo Le Pera and composed by Carlos Gardel.

Story behind the Tango Amargura

Amargura, which translates to “Bitterness” in English, encapsulates a deep sense of betrayal and love gone awry. The protagonist is haunted by the mocking laughter and the sight of a loved one offering a kiss to another, symbolizing deep emotional betrayal. This catalyst sends him spiraling into a whirlwind of despair and vengeful thoughts. Yet, despite his anguish and desire for revenge, he restrains himself, unable to bring harm to the source of his pain, illustrating a poignant struggle between love and despair.

Symbolism of Amargura

The song is replete with rich symbolism that amplifies its emotional depth. The repeated mention of “her laughing mouth” and “the kiss of her lips red as a carnation” not only reinforces the betrayal but also symbolizes the lingering obsession and anger of the narrator. The carnation traditionally symbolizes love and fascination, which in this context turns into a grotesque reminder of what was lost. The imagery of “drinking another glass” and “fields and the moon” to whom he told his happiness, portrays the ubiquitous attempt to drown sorrow and speak to the indifferent universe about personal grief.

Amargura in historic Context

Recorded in 1934, during a period when Tango music was woven deeply into the cultural fabric of Argentina, “Amargura” captures the melancholic ethos and the complex emotional undertones prevalent in the society of the time. The Great Depression had an overarching impact on global economies and individual psyches, influencing art forms, including Tango, which increasingly reflected themes of disillusionment, loss, and personal turmoil.

Alfredo Le Pera

Alfredo Le Pera was an Argentine lyricist and journalist, best known for his collaborations with the famed Tango singer Carlos Gardel, including classics like “El día que me quieras” and “Mi Buenos Aires querido.”