En carne propia by (Author)

En carne propia is a Tango written by and composed by Manuel Sucher.

Story behind the Tango En carne propia

“En carne propia” tells the story of betrayal and the deep emotional scars that result from it. The narrator expresses the pain of a wound inflicted by a loved one, foreseeing a time when the betrayer will suffer the same agony. The poignant lyrics resonate with notions of justice and retribution, promising that the emotional wounds will be mirrored back onto the betrayer.

Symbolism of En carne propia

The lyrics employ vivid symbolism, with key phrases like “en carne propia” translating to “in your own flesh,” highlighting a visceral, direct experience of suffering. The image of “la sangre de esa herida” (“the blood from that wound”) symbolizes the deep and persistent pain caused by betrayal. This wound metaphor runs through the narrative, illustrating both physical and emotional torment. The language of justice—”vengadora o justiciera” (avenger or vindicator)—emphasizes the hope, or perhaps the inevitability, that the hurt will come full circle.

En carne propia in historic Context

Composed in Buenos Aires in 1946, this tango comes from a time when Argentina was experiencing significant social and economic change under Juan Domingo Perón’s leadership. Tango, deeply rooted in the cultural fabric of Buenos Aires, often echoed the emotions and struggles of the common people living through these transitions. “En carne propia” resonates with the era’s focus on personal justice and emotional truth—a reflection of the uncertainties and turbulence faced by the citizens.

was the author whose poignant lyrics provided a raw and emotional narrative for “En carne propia,” crafting a story of personal injury and the cyclical nature of pain and retribution.