Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ
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 flete is a Tango written by Pascual Contursi and composed by Vicente Romeo.
The lyrics of “El flete” portray the transformation in the Argentine society during a period marked by changes in social behaviors and perceptions of traditional machismo. The tango discusses the decline of the archetypical tough, violent men often romanticized in earlier tangos. It highlights the disappearance of those who were known for brawling, wielding knives, and professing a brash, dominant attitude. Instead, such men have become more subdued, either by societal pressures or by being literally moved (‘flete’ implies being sent away) to another area, suggesting a crackdown on such rough behaviors.
The symbolism in “El flete” centers around the term ‘flete’ itself, which, while literally referring to freight or cargo, metaphorically suggests how these once-feared men are now being quietly dispatched or sidelined. This transportation metaphor underscores the notion of changing times – perhaps towards more civility or different forms of asserting authority. The repeated lines “lo catan y le dan flete pa’ la otra población” underscore a theme of displacement and possibly reformative measures against such personas, portraying societal cleansing or transformation.
1936 Argentina was a period characterized by political and social upheaval. The nation was grappling with its cultural identity, influenced by immigration and shifting political powers. In this context, “El flete” might be interpreted as reflective commentary on societal efforts to curtail the lawlessness that was rampant in earlier decades, a calling for an evolution of societal norms and behaviors. This tango may be Contursi’s call to note the transformation from an old guard to a new order, suggesting a move towards a more regulated society where traditional ‘macho’ bravado is no longer as celebrated or tolerated.
Pascual Contursi was a pivotal figure in the history of tango, known for integrating lunfardo and effectively establishing the narrative tango genre.