Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ
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These Tangos, Valses, and Milongas were recorded around the same time. Take a look to discover what else this orchestra—or others—may have recorded during the same week or even on the exact same day.
El divorcio is a Tango written by Raúl Hormaza and composed by Luis Adesso.
“El divorcio” delves into the dissolution of a marriage, presenting it in a lighthearted and somewhat sarcastic manner. The narrator, presumably a disgruntled husband, describes the process of splitting possessions with his spouse. Highlighting the mundane and trivial items up for division, he emphasizes the materialistic focus that overshadowed their relationship. The tone is mocking as he narrates the breakdown of what was supposed to be a loving union into a mere distribution of belongings.
The lyrics are filled with symbolic mentions of everyday items that convey deeper meanings about the relationship’s dissolution. The mention of “la dentadura postiza,” which the husband claims to leave for his wife, could symbolize the facade in their relationship—something not genuine but necessary to maintain appearances. Similarly, dividing up items like “la palangana” (washbowl) and “la tina” (bathtub) trivializes the heartache of divorce, reducing it to petty arguments over insignificant possessions. The “recibo del alquiler” (rent receipt) symbolizes the end of their shared responsibilities and the finality of their separation.
Recorded in 1950, “El divorcio” reflects the conservative nature of Argentine society where divorce was stigmatized and seen as a failure. Tango often explored themes of disappointment, betrayal, and the darker facets of love, mirroring intimate human relationships and societal norms. At the time, discussing divorce openly was rare and could be considered taboo. This song humorously tackles the subject, perhaps providing a more accessible way to discuss these themes publicly. The references to popular culture, like the mention of Tyrone Power, root the song in its time, providing contemporary listeners with a relatable touchstone amid the narrator’s grievances.
Raúl Hormaza is known for infusing Tango lyrics with everyday scenarios and emotions, making them relatable to the common man’s experiences. “El divorcio” serves as a prime example of his work, blending humor with poignant cultural commentary.