Barrio tranquilo by Victorino Velázquez

Barrio tranquilo is a Tango written by Victorino Velázquez and composed by Arturo Gallucci.

Story behind the Tango Barrio tranquilo

The lyrics of “Barrio tranquilo” create a nostalgic canvas, illustrating a serene neighborhood under the calm of night, lit by the moon that adds a gleaming glow to the suburb. This peaceful setting is contrasted with the emotional turmoil of a son who has left behind his elderly mother. His departure leaves her isolated in a small house, accompanied only by a silent witness to her sorrow – the moon. The central theme revolves around the son’s remorse and longing, underpinned by the persistent memory of his mother’s suffering.

Symbolism of Barrio tranquilo

The night’s cloak and the glowing moon in “Barrio tranquilo” serve as powerful symbols. The night symbolizes the hidden, often overlooked emotions, while the moon acts as a beacon of truth and memory showcasing things as they are. The mention of the “casita de la verja y el parral” suggests a humble but cherished home life, enveloped in peaceful yet poignant memories. The moon’s glow over the neighborhood underscores the contrast between the external peace and the internal agony faced by the mother.

Barrio tranquilo in historic Context

Recorded on March 23, 1945, in post-World War II Argentina, “Barrio tranquilo” reflects a period of global and local recalibrations. Argentina, though strategically neutral for much of the war, was not untouched by its implications. The tango could be seen as a reflection on the personal losses and emotional distance exacerbated by such global unrest. It highlights the traditional values of familial respect and care, which perhaps were strained during those challenging times.

Victorino Velázquez

Victorino Velázquez was a notable figure in the tango genre, recognized for his profound lyrical contributions that often explored themes of nostalgia, love, and societal reflections.