Designio by Carlos Bahr

Designio is a Tango written by Carlos Bahr and composed by Julio Medovoy.

Story behind the Tango Designio

The tango “Designio” portrays a strong message of love under divine will, challenging society’s judgment of personal relationships. The lyrics reflect the inner turmoil and defiance against societal norms that deem to regulate the emotions and relationships dictated by a higher power—emphasizing a philosophical inquiry into fate, love, and divine justice.

Symbolism of Designio

Carlos Bahr uses limbic symbolism to juxtapose human judgment against divine plans. Phrases such as “Si Dios es quien inspira esta emoción” and “Es Él, quien ha encendido las pasiones” suggest love as a sacred and divine emotion, beyond human questioning or intervention. The recurrent reference to ‘designio’ or ‘destiny’ highlights the unavoidable, predetermined aspect of the protagonists’ love, seen as orchestrated by a higher power. The challenge to those “que se cree/M mejor que Dios” serves as a powerful condemnation of human arrogance and judgment.

Designio in historic Context

Written in Argentina in the mid-1950s, Designio emerges during a turbulent period marked by political instability and a deeply religious society. This era witnessed a clash between progressive and conservative views, especially regarding personal freedom versus societal judgment. Bahr’s lyrics, suggesting divine endorsement of personal emotions running counter to societal judgments, could be seen as a subtle commentary on these broader conflicts, advocating for personal liberty and love devoid of societal constraints.

Carlos Bahr

Carlos Bahr was a prolific Argentine lyricist known for his profound tangos that often delve into themes of love, destiny, and societal norms.