Del tiempo guapo by Vicente Florentino
Del tiempo guapo is a Tango written by and composed by Vicente Florentino.
Story behind the Tango Del tiempo guapo
This tango, “Del tiempo guapo”, paints a vivid picture of nostalgia and the reflection of a bygone era in Buenos Aires. Through its lyrics, it evokes a deep longing for the past, particularly the 1880s—a period known for its cultural vibrancy. The song tells of the vibrant nightlife, the social gatherings, and the days of the old fortines (frontier forts), where music and community thrived amidst the setting of military life. The narrator reminisces about past gatherings and emotions from this vivid culture of porteños (residents of Buenos Aires), reflecting on the simple yet profound influence of milonga music as a societal pillar.
Symbolism of Del tiempo guapo
The primary themes in the lyrics revolve around memories, cultural identity, and the passage of time. The “milonga del tiempo guapo” (milonga from the handsome time) is central, symbolizing the charm and beauty of a cultural heyday. The term “rompe y raja” suggests a raucous, uninhibited celebration culture, marking an era defined by vibrancy. Key phrases such as “soy porteño del 80” indicate personal identification with the city’s essence, hinting at a generation’s spirit.
Notable symbolic imagery includes “kepises” and “bombachas de carmín,” which refer to military uniforms, underscoring a connection to historical Buenos Aires. The “bulla del empedrado” highlights the cobblestone streets’ noise, synonymous with lively city life. The piringundín, a type of bohemian bar, represents social gathering points rich with life and music.
Del tiempo guapo in historic Context
Written in 1941, the song reflects Argentina’s interest in its cultural roots amidst changing times. Buenos Aires of this period was evolving into a cosmopolitan hub, but there was still a yearning for the simpler, more evocative times of the late 19th century. This nostalgia was common as the city modernized and global events (like World War II) influenced cultural sentiment.
Specific locations mentioned, such as the “Barracas del Sur” and “Palermo de avería,” are historical neighborhoods once known for vibrant, working-class cultures, with Barracas associated with industry, and Palermo known for nightlife. “Mataderos” refers to the stockyard district, illustrative of Buenos Aires’ economic and cultural landscape. These places situate the listener squarely in Buenos Aires’ most colorful narratives.
Del tiempo guapo prominently portrays Buenos Aires’ unique historical and cultural identity. The artist, though unnamed, emerges as a storyteller of his era, bridging the nostalgia of Buenos Aires’ colorful past with his chosen words and melodies. Through this tango, Vicente Florentino captures and immortalizes the essence of a time memorable to its people.
