Farol by

Farol is a Tango written by and composed by Virgilio Expósito.

Story behind the Tango Farol

The tango “Farol,” composed by Virgilio Expósito, paints a vivid portrait of an Argentine neighborhood, or “arrabal,” reflecting both physical and emotional landscapes. The imagery of “casas que reflejan su dolor de lata” evokes a poignant scene of worn-out tin houses, symbolic of an enduring struggle and nostalgia. It weaves personal and communal memories into its narrative, resonating deeply with those familiar with Buenos Aires’ corners and the societal stories whispered in its shadows.

Symbolism of Farol

The “farol” or streetlight serves as a poignant symbol in the tango, representing the passage of time and the changes in the neighborhood. This is emphasized in key phrases like “Farol ya no es lo mismo que ayer,” suggesting the inevitability of change and perhaps loss over time. The phrase “con el tango en el bolsillo” invokes the idea of carrying cultural and personal history, which now seems to be dimming or losing its past brilliance, symbolized by the “perdiendo luz y brillo y es una cruz.”

Farol in historic Context

“Farol” was written in 1943, a period when Argentina was undergoing significant social and economic changes, which is reflected in the tango’s narrative. The depiction of a “barrio obrero” or working-class neighborhood, resonates with the historical context of Argentina’s economic challenges and working-class struggles. Buenos Aires, the birthplace of tango, serves as the perfect backdrop for this composition, capturing the essence of a city deeply rooted in tango culture, reflecting its cultural and socio-economic transformations.

Virgilio Expósito was a renowned Argentine composer and pianist, pivotal in shaping the innovation in tango music during the mid-20th century. Known for enriching the genre, his works highlight the emotional depths and cultural narratives of Argentine society.