El soldado by Reinaldo Yiso

El soldado is a Tango written by Reinaldo Yiso and composed by Roberto Chanel.

Story behind the Tango El soldado

“El soldado” delves deeply into the sacrifice and suffering of soldiers who die in wars. It narrates the poignant tale of a soldier mortally wounded on the battlefield, reflecting on his peaceful childhood in Italy and the heart-wrenching goodbye from his mother and lover. As he lies dying, his thoughts drift to familial love, particularly the maternal figure, symbolizing ultimate comfort and safety in his final moments. The voice of the song serves as a universal lament for soldiers, empathizing with their enforced allegiance to nationhood over personal safety and happiness.

Symbolism of El soldado

The tango uses vivid imagery and symbols to portray the plight and inner turmoil of soldiers. Phrases such as “lying in the dust, looking at a star” symbolize the soldier’s isolation and longing for a peaceful past amid chaos. The “bronze flower” mentioned in the opening verses serves as a tribute to the enduring spirit and sacrifice of the soldier, juxtaposing the cold, hard realities of war with tender remembrance. Meanwhile, the “steel in the heart” metaphor criticizes the dehumanization and emotional hardening caused by war.

El soldado in historic Context

Recorded in the mid-20th century, “El soldado” reflects the global context of frequent wars that marked the era, specifically around the aftermath of World War II and the onset of the Cold War. The tango, emerging from Argentina, a country with its complex military history, resonates with universal themes of loss and the senselessness of war. It captures a collective mourning and critical contemplation of wartime nationalism, which often leads to devastating personal sacrifices.

Reinaldo Yiso

A prominent figure in Tango music, Reinaldo Yiso is celebrated for his evocative lyrics which often reflect social themes and human emotions.