El entrerriano by Homero Exposito

El entrerriano is a Tango written by Homero Exposito and composed by Rosendo Mendizabal.

Story behind the Tango El entrerriano

The lyrics of “El entrerriano” vividly describe the persona of a man from the Entre Ríos province of Argentina, emphasizing his prowess not only in traditional dance but also in romantic pursuits. The theme gravitates around pride in one’s roots and personal abilities, particularly in social settings influenced by Tango culture. The protagonist portrays himself as resilient (‘aguanto el tren de los guapos con tajitos’), showcasing his capability to handle challenging situations with grace and confidence.

Symbolism of El entrerriano

“El entrerriano” is rich in symbolism, especially through its references to the Tango dance itself. The lyrics, “en las cortadas del querer y en la milonga del amor,” metaphorically represent life’s complexities and romantic entanglements. The dance moves, such as ‘haciendo cortes’ (making cuts), symbolize navigating these intricacies, often reflecting the maneuvers needed in interpersonal relationships. This resemblance between the dance’s dynamics and life’s emotional turnabouts offers deep cultural insight into how Tango embodies more than a dance, acting as a narrative medium for larger life themes.

El entrerriano in historic Context

Given its release in 1963, a period marked by cultural shifts and political upheaval in Argentina, “El entrerriano” not merely echoes a musical tradition but also subtly resonates with a collective memory and longing for identity during times of change. The valorization of regional identity and traditional virtues in a rapidly evolving society could be seen as a counter-narrative to the homogenizing forces of globalization and political strife during that era.

Homero Exposito

Homero Exposito was a prominent Argentine lyricist in the 20th century, known for his deep and evocative Tango compositions.