Justo el 31 by Enrique Santos Discépolo

Justo el 31 is a Tango written by Enrique Santos Discépolo and composed by Enrique Santos Discépolo.

Story behind the Tango Justo el 31

The narrative within “Justo el 31” revolves around a man recounting his tumultuous relationship that unexpectedly ended on the 31st. The lyrics, filled with vivid imagery, evoke a sense of emotional upheaval and the complexities of romantic entanglements. The man mentions how, initially thrilled and in constant motion, he eventually wakes up to the realities of his romantic choice, symbolized by a jarring discovery on the 31st of the month. His descriptive recounting details the harsh and often mocking social backdrop of his relationship as others viewed his partner as less desirable, equating her appearance to that of a primate.

Symbolism of Justo el 31

The use of dates and specific incidents like the “ingesta of a rope” play significant symbolic roles in capturing moments of despair and abrupt endings. The imagery of “la inglesa loca” (the crazy English lady) highlights the otherness and estrangement felt by the protagonist. Symbolism is further enriched by the societal reaction, where people threw nuts and teased him, indicating a collective ridicule that often accompanies personal tragedies in public spaces.

Justo el 31 in historical Context

Recorded in the early 1930s in Argentina, “Justo el 31” emerges during a vibrant era of Tango’s evolution into a global phenomenon, reflective of urban disenchantment and the melancholic vibe that the Great Depression era inspired. As urban societies grappled with economic and social despair during this period, themes of disillusionment and personal anecdotes of failure resonated strongly with the audience, tying personal failures to broader societal conditions.

Enrique Santos Discépolo

A paramount figure in the world of Tango, Enrique Santos Discépolo is acclaimed for his profound and often introspective lyrics that explore themes of love, society, and existential reflections.