El tren de las once by Horacio Susena

El tren de las once is a Tango written by Horacio Susena and composed by Horacio Susena.

Story behind the Tango El tren de las once

The narrative of ‘El tren de las once’ (The Eleven O’Clock Train) poetically traverses the themes of longing and despair, alongside the eventual return of hope. Susena vividly describes the natural elements—vicious winds, slashing rains—as metaphors for the protagonist’s internal turmoil and suffering while waiting near the train tracks. This anguish is precipitated by the departure of his love, likely on a previous train, removing her physically and emotionally from his life. The train symbolizes both separation and the faint possibility of a reunion, a theme captured decisively towards the end when the train finally stops and brings his beloved back, seeking forgiveness.

Symbolism of El tren de las once

Significant symbolism in this tango revolves around natural and mechanistic elements. The train, for instance, is a powerful symbol of relentless, unstoppable progress and inevitable departure or arrival. It further reflects the cyclic nature of pain and joy. The ‘eyes of blood of the last car’ that weep for the narrator’s pain evoke a vivid image of suffering. The elements—rain and wind—being harsh, contribute to an atmosphere of desolation, mirroring the emotional landscape of the protagonist. Conversely, the moon dusted with starlight and the fragrant breeze whispering songs contrastingly bring a subtle reminder of enduring beauty and potential for emotional reconciliation.

El tren de las once in historic Context

Placed in 1945, shortly after World War II, this tango resonates with a prevalent atmosphere of loss and recovery. Argentina, though distant from the battlefields of Europe, was not impervious to the war’s socio-economic ripples. ‘El tren de las once’ thus transcends its immediate setting, tapping into a universal sentiment of awaiting the return of something beloved that the war had taken away. This era also witnessed significant migrations towards urban centers in Argentina like Buenos Aires, seeking opportunities, often leaving behind loved ones, a nuance that might have resonated deeply with the Argentine audience at the time.

Horacio Susena

Horacio Susena was a significant Argentine lyricist and composer notable for his contributions to the Tango genre around the mid-20th century.