Chorra by Enrique Santos Discepolo

Chorra is a Tango written by Enrique Santos Discepolo and composed by Enrique Santos Discepolo.

Story behind the Tango Chorra

“Chorra,” a captivating tango written in 1928 by Enrique Santos Discepolo, delves into themes of betrayal, deception, and indignation. The narrator tells a sorrowful tale of being swindled by a woman and her family, lamenting over his naivety as he recounts the financial and emotional losses he suffered. The title “Chorra,” translating to “Thief” in English, encapsulates the essence of betrayal that forms the core of the song.

Symbolism of Chorra

In “Chorra,” Discepolo uses potent symbolism and poignant language to enhance the emotional thrust of the narrative. Phrases like “me dejaste en la palmera” (you left me stranded) or “me comiste el mercadito” (you ate up my little market) serve as metaphors depicting the narrator’s ruin and despair. The vivid imagery of being stripped bare “hasta el color” (even of color) symbolizes total loss, extending beyond the material to the personal and existential. The repeated exclamation “¡Chorra!” not only underscores the woman’s deceitful nature but also the narrator’s outrage and sense of betrayal.

Chorra in historic Context

The year 1928 was a time of significant social change in Argentina, marked by the rise of the middle class and the complexities of urban development in cities like Buenos Aires. Socio-economic shifts and the resulting tensions are reflected in “Chorra,” where themes of deception and exploitation in personal relationships mirror larger societal issues. The tango, as a music and dance form, often tackled the gritty realities of urban life, serving as a narrative vehicle for storytelling and reflection among the working class.

Enrique Santos Discepolo

Enrique Santos Discepolo was a renowned Argentine tango musician, poet, and playwright. His works often explored the darker aspects of human emotion and societal issues.