Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ
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These Tangos, Valses, and Milongas were recorded around the same time. Take a look to discover what else this orchestra—or others—may have recorded during the same week or even on the exact same day.
Honda tristeza is a Tango written by Vicente Planells del Campo and composed by Roberto Firpo.
The lyrics of “Honda tristeza” vividly capture a moment of profound personal loss and emotional pain. The song starts with a description of a distressing night that the narrator cannot forget, emphasizing how deeply etched the memory is in their mind. The essence of the narrative revolves around a farewell that leaves a lingering sadness in the narrator’s heart—a sorrow that seems impossible to alleviate. The audience is drawn into this scene through poignant interactions and the evocation of a memory tied to a lush garden, which witnessed the sorrowful parting and now serves as a stark reminder of the bygone joy and love.
“Honda tristeza” translates to “deep sadness” in English, which encapsulates the emotional core of the song. The lyricist uses the garden as a powerful symbol of growth and decay. While gardens are traditionally places of life and beauty, in this context, it underscores the isolation and sorrow following the departure of a loved one. The act of holding hands, the pressing tightly, and the final goodbye all heighten the sense of a profound and irrevocable loss. These elements symbolize the close yet painfully broken connection between the narrator and the departed.
Written in 1931, during a period of both cultural blossoming and political turbulence in Argentina, “Honda tristeza” echoes the sentiments of melancholy prevalent in the era. During the early 20th century, tango was evolving as an expression of the urban disenchantment and a reflection of personal narratives. This piece, with its themes of love and loss, resonates with the emotional struggles and existential reflections common at the time, influenced heavily by both the local and global socio-political atmosphere.
Vicente Planells del Campo was an influential figure in tango, known for embodying deep emotional experiences into poignant lyrics that resonate widely.