Felicia by Carlos Mauricio Pacheco

Felicia is a Tango written by Carlos Mauricio Pacheco and composed by Enrique Saborido.

Story behind the Tango Felicia

The lyrics of “Felicia” evoke a deep melancholy and a bound connection to nature, particularly the sea. The narrator reflects on a secluded, almost sacred coastal area where the mysteries of the mist and the sea are omnipresent. This setting serves as a retreat for the narrator, who seeks solace in watching the whims of the waves while mourning a personal sorrow in solitude. The sea becomes a metaphor for the narrator’s pain—an endless, fluctuating entity that mirrors his own inconsolable spirit.

Symbolism of Felicia

In “Felicia,” the sea is a dominant symbol, representing both the depth of the narrator’s emotions and the constant, sometimes volatile changes in life. The undulating waves symbolize the ups and downs of existence, while the “mystery of the fog” implies the unclear, often unpredictable future. The reference to having the sea engraved in his eyes suggests that the narrator carries the weight and the memories of his past wherever he goes—it has become a part of his identity. The phrase “my consolation was in looking” symbolizes the idea that sometimes, observing and reflecting is the only comfort one can find in moments of despair.

Felicia in Historic Context

The tango was recorded in 1947, a time post-World War II where much of the world was dealing with loss and rebuilding. In Argentina, this period was also marked by significant political changes and cultural shifts. The nostalgic and somewhat somber tone of the lyrics may reflect a wider sense of mourning and reflection that was prevalent at the time. The mention of “my Uruguayan flowers” connects to a specific regional identity, rooting the song deeply in the Rio de la Plata region, known for its rich tango culture and history.

Carlos Mauricio Pacheco

Carlos Mauricio Pacheco was a notable lyricist whose works often encapsulated deep emotional narratives with a strong cultural identity reflecting the regions of Argentina and Uruguay. His compositions include multiple layers of meaning, often embracing both personal and broader societal themes.