Café para dos by Francisco Canaro

Café para dos is a Tango written by Francisco Canaro and composed by Francisco Canaro.

Story behind the Tango Café para dos

The tango “Café para dos” delves into the intimate and poignant conversation between the singer and a dear friend, revealed over a cup of coffee. The lyrics unfold a narrative of confession and emotional turmoil that centers around the singer’s relationship marred by his corrosive jealousy. In the privacy of a café, amidst the usual setting of coffee and cigarettes, the singer pours out his fears and regrets concerning his treatment of his beloved, who he describes as purer than the sky yet tormented by his irrational fears.

Symbolism of Café para dos

The recurrent request for “Café para dos” symbolizes the shared experiences and the comfort of companionship during life’s trying moments. The phrase also punctuates the song’s verses, echoing a routine break that facilitates the deep personal reflections being shared. Coffee, often a symbol of warmth and awakening, in this context, underscores a moment of painful clarity and emotional vulnerability. The act of smoking serves as a disguise for the singer’s tears indicating how societal norms often mask true feelings.

Café para dos in historic Context

Created in 1956, “Café para dos” inherits the rich tradition of Argentine tango, a genre deeply entwined with themes of love, loss, and nostalgia. Post World War II Argentina was marked by rapid industrialization and urbanization which led to social transformations and a revival of cultural expressions. In this era, Tango was not just a dance but also a medium for storytelling, often reflecting personal tragedies and societal changes. The conversational style of this tango places it as an emotional outlet and a reflective narrative on personal relationships within the Argentine cultural setting of the time.

Francisco Canaro

Francisco Canaro was one of the most prolific and influential figures in the history of tango, both as a composer and musician.