El llorón by Enrique Cadícamo

El llorón is a Tango written by Enrique Cadícamo and composed by Juan Maglio.

Story behind the Tango El llorón

The Tango, El llorón, which translates to “The Crybaby,” features lyrics that reflect a playful and self-aware interpretation of love and seduction. It tells the story of an individual who is openly emotional, acknowledging their tears as a strategy to win over women. The protagonist’s propensity to cry, rather than being a sign of weakness, is presented as a unique tool in the romantic conquest. This approach suggests a reversal of traditional masculine norms, where vulnerability is leveraged as an emotional strength.

Symbolism of El llorón

The recurring motif of tears in “El llorón” stands out as a symbol of emotional intelligence and strategy rather than mere sensitivity. The juxtaposition of crying with successful “conquest” challenges societal expectations of male behavior, offering a deeper reflection on the complexities of masculine identity. The repeated refrain “siempre siempre primero yo,” which emphatically means “always, always me first,” underscores a blend of egotism with a candid admission of emotional tactics in romantic pursuits.

El llorón in historic Context

Recorded in 1970, a period of significant social and political shifts in Argentina, “El llorón” might subtly mirror the transformations in societal views regarding gender roles and emotional expression. The late 20th century saw evolving norms around masculinity, and the tango could be seen as either a critique of, or an adaptation to, these changing attitudes. The playful tone and vivid descriptions connect with the broader tradition of Tango, which often encapsulates complex emotional narratives within its rhythmic structure and culturally rich lyrics.

Enrique Cadícamo

Enrique Cadícamo was a prominent Argentine lyricist and playwright, noted for his significant contributions to the Tango genre.