Domani by

Domani is a Tango written by and composed by Carlos Viván.

Story behind the Tango Domani

The tango “Domani” unfolds in a melancholic setting, where the protagonist, Don Giovanni, is deeply immersed in sorrow. The imagery of an old tavern, the fog over the Riachuelo river, and the dim glow of a lantern sets a somber scene. Don Giovanni, ensnared in a web of hopelessness, clings to the elusive promise that “domani” (tomorrow) will bring the return of his beloved “ragazzina,” symbolized as a deceitful butterfly that flies beyond his reach. The theme is a poignant exploration of longing, lost love, and the deceptive nature of hope, encapsulated by the ever-repeating tomorrow that never fulfills its promise.

Symbolism of Domani

The tango employs rich symbolism to convey its emotional depth. The “lantern of a cantina” represents a lonely beacon in the darkness, juxtaposing light and shadow to reflect Don Giovanni’s despair. The “fog of the Riachuelo” serves as a metaphor for the murkiness and obscurity of his emotional state. The “ragazzina” or young girl evokes innocence and lost love but is also described as a “mariposa mentirosa” (deceitful butterfly), symbolizing fleeting, unattainable dreams. Key phrases like “mañana” (tomorrow) and “la mentira del alcohol” (the lie of alcohol) highlight the futility and self-deception entrenched in his circumstances. These elements paint a vivid portrait of a man enveloped in grief, willing to believe in a tomorrow that perpetually lies just beyond his grasp.

Domani in historic Context

“Domani” was written in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1952, a period when tango had gained substantial cultural significance in the region. During this time, Buenos Aires was a city rich with European influences, especially from Italy and Spain, which is reflected in the Italian language usage, such as “ragazzina” and “Domani.” The social and political milieu of the early 1950s in Argentina was marked by the fallout from World War II and the rising influence of Peronism. The uncertainties and longing for a better future seen in these lyrics might mirror the broader societal sentiments of the time, as people yearned for stability and prosperity. The Riachuelo, a river flowing through Buenos Aires, grounds the song within the local geographical context, as it historically symbolized the passage of goods and people — lives intertwined with the ebb and flow of economic and emotional tides.

Carlos Viván, the composer of “Domani,” was known for his contributions to the Argentine tango scene, creating pieces that resonate with emotional complexity and cultural richness.