El bar de Rosendo by Gerardo Matos Rodriguez

El bar de Rosendo is a Tango written by Gerardo Matos Rodriguez and composed by Angel D’Agostino.

Story behind the Tango El bar de Rosendo

The lyrics of “El bar de Rosendo” delve deeply into themes of regret, despair, and redemption. It narrates the story of a man reflecting on his past miseries and mistakes as he lies on his deathbed. The man remembers abandoning his mother, whom he left vulnerable, to pursue a passionate but ultimately deceitful love. After realizing his grave error and returning home, he finds that his mother had already died due to negligence. Now, alone and waiting for death, he is gripped by remorse, yet finds peace knowing that his mother has forgiven him from beyond.

Symbolism of El bar de Rosendo

The song uses powerful symbols to enhance the emotional gravity of its narrative. The term “bar” in the title likely symbolizes a meeting place of diverse emotions and stories, typical of a social gathering point but reflecting internal conflicts as well. Key phrases like “the parade of endless miseries” and “feeling the crude sensation of his badness” highlight the incessant suffering and guilt of the protagonist. At the end, as he nears death, the “sweet peace” that reaches him symbolizes forgiveness and the calming of his tormented conscience.

El bar de Rosendo in historic Context

The Tango, “El bar de Rosendo,” was written in 1972, a period filled with political and social unrest in Argentina. The song does not directly reference these events, yet the themes of personal turmoil and loss can be reflective of the broader societal anxiety and decay experienced during that era. The focus on personal redemption amidst despair may also resonate with a wider audience coping with societal chaos.

Gerardo Matos Rodriguez

Gerardo Matos Rodriguez was a Uruguayan composer, famously known for composing the famous Tango “La Cumparsita,” one of the most recognizable and celebrated tango pieces globally.