Discepolín by Homero Manzi

Discepolín is a Tango written by Homero Manzi and composed by Aníbal Troilo.

Story behind the Tango Discepolín

“Discepolín” is a tribute to the well-known Argentine playwright and screenwriter Enrique Santos Discépolo. The lyrics, crafted by the poet Homero Manzi, paint a poignant picture of a man ensnared by the melancholy that defines tango music. Through vivid imagery and emotional depth, Manzi captures the introspection and existential musings of Discépolo, revealing both the pain of existence and the solace found within the sadness. The tango was born in the streets and cafes of Buenos Aires, evolving into a powerful medium for societal reflection and personal storytelling.

Symbolism of Discepolín

Homero Manzi weaves a tapestry of symbolism throughout the lyrics. The “mármol helado” (cold marble) evokes the starkness and lifelessness of a world devoid of warmth and meaning. “Migas de medialuna” (crumbs of a croissant) signify the remnants of past comforts, a suggestion of the fleeting pleasures that no longer sustain. “Tu musa está sangrando” (your muse is bleeding) speaks to the inherent struggle and suffering in the creative process, highlighting the raw emotional sacrifices made for art.

Notable language choices such as “lágrima amarga” (bitter tear) and “careta pálida de clown” (pale clown mask) create a duality of joy and sorrow, reflecting the delicate balance between hiding one’s true emotions and expressing genuine feelings. Manzi connects with Discépolo’s legacy, paying homage to his ability to transform personal anguish into artistic beauty while resonating with universal human emotions.

Discepolín in historic Context

Written during a period when Argentina was experiencing significant cultural and social changes, “Discepolín” captures the essence of Argentine identity through the lens of tango. In the early 20th century, Buenos Aires was a melting pot of immigrants, creating a rich backdrop for the development of tango. The genre became a way to navigate and express the complexities of modern urban life. The collaboration of Homero Manzi and Aníbal Troilo in 1942, a time marked by political upheaval and economic challenges, further underscores the tango’s role as a voice for the marginalized and disenfranchised, lending a timeless quality to its themes of love, loss, and longing.

Homero Manzi

Homero Manzi was an influential Argentine poet, lyricist, and screenwriter, known for his profound contributions to tango literature. His work is celebrated for its emotive depth and lyrical beauty, capturing the complexities of human emotion and urban life.