Incertidumbre by Lito Bayardo

Incertidumbre is a Tango written by Lito Bayardo and composed by Guillermo Alo.

Story behind the Tango Incertidumbre

In “Incertidumbre,” meaning “Uncertainty” in English, the lyrics delve into a narrative of deep admiration and momentary illusion. The speaker describes his beloved with vivid imagery: “Muñeca linda, pizpireta / De la boca en flor,” depicting her as a charming and delightful doll with a blooming mouth, symbolizing youthful attractiveness and freshness. The mention of “ojazos verdemar / Brillantes como el sol” highlights her captivating green sea-like eyes, shining like the sun, adding a layer of warmth and brightness to her image.

Symbolism of Incertidumbre

Throughout the tango, Lito Bayardo creatively utilizes symbolism to enhance the dramatic effect of the piece. For instance, “silueta fina, tipo bibelot” not only portrays the beloved’s delicate and fine figure but also compares her to a bibelot, a small decorative object, suggesting her exquisite and possibly fragile nature. This dainty imagery juxtaposes with the song’s theme of uncertainty, enhancing the transient and elusive quality of the beloved. The recurring feelings of uncertainty are emphasized in the lines “Cuando te miro / Yo no sé qué extraña sensación,” where the speaker admits to an indescribable sensation when beholding his loved one, reinforcing the theme of fleeting moments and ephemeral beauty.

Incertidumbre in historic Context

Composed in 1939, during a globally tumultuous period marked by the impending chaos of World War II, “Incertidumbre” echoes a sense of unease and unpredictability, resonating well with the era’s mood. Argentina, despite its neutral stance during the early years of the war, was not completely detached from the global sentiment of uncertainty. This historical backdrop might have subtly influenced Bayardo to imbue his tango with an air of transient beauty and fleeting encounters, mirroring the societal sentiments of the time.

Lito Bayardo

Lito Bayardo, born as Manuel Juan García Ferrari, was an influential Argentine musician and lyricist, renowned for his contributions to the genre of tango.