Encuentro by Miguel Bucino

Encuentro is a Tango written by Miguel Bucino and composed by Miguel Bucino.

Story behind the Tango Encuentro

The Tango “Encuentro,” which means “Encounter” in English, explores an emotional reunion between former lovers. The narrator expresses profound surprise and uncontrollable emotions upon seeing their old love again. Initially hopeful for reconciliation, instead, they face the harsh truth that the relationship is irrevocably over, highlighted by the phrase, “Con los ojos sin llanto: ¡todo ha muerto!” which translates to “With tearless eyes: everything is dead!” This revelation shatters any remaining illusions, deepening their existing despair.

Symbolism of Encuentro

The repeated references to the heart, “El corazón,” signify the deep emotional core of the lyrics and point to the heart being the center of pain, love, and ultimately, loss. The heart’s repeated involvement underlines its dual role as the source of deep love and profound suffering. The soul described as “ya vencida,” meaning “already defeated,” along with the heart turned into a “fantoche” or puppet, portrays how his emotional core is manipulated by his lingering feelings, leading to desperate thoughts.

Encuentro in historic Context

“Encuentro” was written in 1944, a period marked by turbulent political and social changes in Argentina, toward the end of World War II. The sense of loss, despair, and resignation in the lyrics can be reflective of the broader societal mood, characterized by uncertainty and the longing for a return to better times or resolutions that may never come. The somber mood of the Tango might also mirror the general public sentiment of the era, expressing collective emotional struggles through personal narrative.

Miguel Bucino

Miguel Bucino was a notable poet and composer in Argentina, particularly recognized for his contributions to Tango music.