Así se baila hoy by Ernesto Cardenal

Así se baila hoy is a Tango written by Ernesto Cardenal and composed by Marcos Vera.

Story behind the Tango Así se baila hoy

The tango “Así se baila hoy,” captures the spirit of dance evolution in Argentina, contrasting the golden era of tango with contemporary styles. It reflects on the nostalgic allure of early 1900s tango, once dominated by the likes of El Cachafaz, and celebrates the vigor and uniqueness of the current styles. It expresses pride in the modern way of dance, indicating how it may differ in form and style but not in essence—class and skill prevail, transcending time.

Symbolism of Así se baila hoy

Throughout the lyrics, dance serves as a potent symbol representing cultural transformation and resilience. Phrases like “el tiempo de oro pa’ nuestra milonga” symbolize a longing for the quintessential golden age of tango, yet also a recognition that each era brings its own flair to tradition. In addition, the description of the dance partner as one who outperforms Mireya, a renowned dancer, symbolizes respect and recognition of the new generation’s capability to elevate traditional forms to contemporary excellence.

Así se baila hoy in historic Context

First released in 1972 in Argentina, “Así se baila hoy” comes from a period of significant cultural and political shifts. This was a time when Argentina was under various stresses that shaped its music and cultural expressions. The tango reflects a societal embrace of modern influences while deeply venerating its historical roots, seen as a fusion and evolution representative of its time. The lyrics not only highlight a temporal shift but also affirm the local cultural identity through dance amidst globalizing influences.

Ernesto Cardenal

Ernesto Cardenal was a Nicaraguan poet and priest known for his deep involvement in politics and advocacy for liberation theology.