Aromas by Emilio Fresedo

Aromas is a Tango written by Emilio Fresedo and composed by Osvaldo Fresedo.

Story behind the Tango “Aromas”

The tango “Aromas” by Emilio Fresedo encapsulates a deep, reflective journey into the realms of memory and nostalgia. The lyrics delve into a subdued sense of loss, capturing the essence of fleeting time and the ephemeral nature of life’s moments. The core themes revolve around reminiscence and the bittersweet emotions tied to the past experiences that are cherished yet lost to time.

Symbolism of Aromas

The word “aromas” in the tango symbolizes the intangible yet profoundly impactful memories that linger like scents in the air, evoking feelings and images from the past. Fresedo uses the metaphor of fading scents to represent the way memories and emotions dissipate over time, yet continue to influence one’s feelings and thoughts. The lines “Y de las flores de casa/aquel perfume embriagador” (And from the home flowers/that intoxicating perfume) emphasize how specific, sensory experiences can transport one back to moments in time that are both precious and fleeting.

Aromas in historic Context

Released in 1950, “Aromas” by Emilio Fresedo emerges during a period in Argentina marked by significant political and social changes. The post-World War II era was a time reflective of introspection and the reevaluation of personal and collective identities. This historical backdrop may explain the tango’s emphasis on looking back at the ‘better times’ of the past and the sense of loss over the inevitable changes brought by time. The mention of “el colegio, el placer” (the school, the pleasure) underscores a longing for simpler, carefree days.

Emilio Fresedo

Emilio Fresedo, alongside his brother Osvaldo Fresedo, was a notable figure in the Argentine tango scene. Known for his lyrical contributions, his works often evoke deep emotional resonance through themes of nostalgia and reminiscence.