Carnaval by

Carnaval is a Tango written by and composed by Anselmo Aíeta.

Story behind the Tango Carnaval

The tango “Carnaval” unfolds the emotional story of love lost against the backdrop of a festive scene. These lyrics center on a poignant encounter between former lovers at a glamorous carnival event. The speaker expresses a bittersweet sentiment upon seeing their past love transformed by the glitz and wealth surrounding them. This transformation is highlighted during a fleeting encounter where the speaker observes their former love now moving in affluent circles, seemingly disconnected from their shared, simpler past. The longing and melancholy of the speaker remind us of the temporary thrill life often offers juxtaposed with enduring sentiments of unfulfilled love and nostalgia.

Symbolism of Carnaval

The symbolism in “Carnaval” is rich and evocative, tapping into themes of disguise and transformation that the carnival inherently represents. The “mantón de Manila” and “disfraz” are notable symbols illustrating wealth and deception, respectively. These items are not just literal garments but represent a shift in social status and the superficial masks people wear in society. The speaker’s remark on changing “percal” for “seda” symbolizes the leap from modesty to affluence, posing questions about authenticity and true happiness. Furthermore, the characters of “Colombina” and “Arlequín” evoke the masks of the Commedia dell’arte, representing innocence beguiled by material allure and the fleeting nature of such masquerades.

Carnaval in historic Context

Created in 1947 Buenos Aires, “Carnaval” reflects post-war Argentina, a period of social change and economic complexity. During this time, the nation was experiencing shifts in class structure and an embracing of opulence among the newly affluent. The nightlife in Buenos Aires, with its vibrant cabarets and burgeoning tango scene, mirrors the dance’s themes of yearning and transformation. The lyrics subtly critique the allure of wealth and upper-class society, emblematic of the decade’s shifting values and the pursuit of material desires amidst a backdrop of political and social upheaval.

Anselmo Aíeta was a renowned tango composer from Argentina, celebrated for his contributions to the genre, particularly in the vibrant cultural milieu of Buenos Aires during the early 20th century.