Corrientes angosta by

Corrientes angosta is a Tango written by and composed by Ángel Gatti.

Story behind the Tango Corrientes angosta

The tango “Corrientes angosta” serves as a nostalgic homage to the Buenos Aires of old, depicting a deeply personal journey through the streets of Corrientes. The protagonist reflects on a bygone era with a deep sense of longing and loss. Through memories of youthful escapades and personal connections to the place, the lyrics weave a tale of change both internal and external. The tango laments the transformation of the once narrow and intimate Corrientes into a bustling, modern thoroughfare, mirroring the broader changes in society and the inevitable passage of time.

Symbolism of Corrientes angosta

Symbolism is rich within the tango, with Corrientes serving as a metaphor for the passage of time and the evolution of life. The streets themselves are personified, holding memories of “muchachitos” and “compadreado” days, highlighting a contrast between past and present. Key phrases like “Corrientes de antes, Corrientes vieja” signify a deep emotional attachment to the past, while “Ya no sos la calle posta” evokes the inevitability of change and loss of identity. The figure of “El Cachafaz,” a famous tango dancer, embodies the cultural vibrancy of yesteryears, further emphasizing the depth of what is perceived to be lost in modernity.

Corrientes angosta in historic Context

Created during a transformative period in Buenos Aires, “Corrientes angosta” captures the essence of an era when modernization began reshaping traditional neighborhoods. The early 20th century brought significant changes to Corrientes Avenue, known for its cultural and social significance in the tango scene. This historic context lends a poignant backdrop to the lyrics, whereby the narrator’s personal sentiments mirror the broader societal shifts. Locations such as “El Palomar” and “Los treinta y seis” evoke specific cultural landmarks within the city, grounding the narrator’s reminiscences in concrete places familiar to those who experienced a similar urban evolution.

About the Composer

Ángel Gatti, the composer of “Corrientes angosta,” contributed to the rich tapestry of Argentine tango, capturing the emotional and cultural zeitgeist of his time through his evocative compositions.