Justo el 31 by Enrique Santos Discépolo

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

Story behind the Tango Justo el 31

“Justo el 31,” which translates to “Exactly on the 31st,” narrates a tale of a man who outsmarts a woman intending to trap him into a relationship. The lyrics cleverly depict a humorous yet poignant story where the protagonist escapes a manipulative situation “just in time” on the 31st. The song begins with the protagonist jubilantly describing his life as a carousel, full of movement and elation, before revealing his cunning escape from a potentially stifling commitment.

Symbolism of Justo el 31

The tango uses vivid imagery and metaphors to deepen its narrative. The “carrusel” symbolizes constant motion and change, reflecting the protagonist’s playful and unrestrained life. Contrastingly, the metaphor of the woman as a mischievous monkey who unexpectedly entangles the man in a trap underlines themes of deception and surprise. Furthermore, references to “se morfó la soga” (she wolfed down the rope) humorously exaggerates the woman’s despair, adding a layer of dark comedy to the song.

Justo el 31 in historic Context

Written in 1958, a period rich in socio-political changes in Argentina, “Justo el 31” may subtly mirror the social dynamics and gender roles prevalent at the time. In an era when societal expectations often dictated personal relationships and marriages, Discépolo’s song cleverly critiques these practices through satire and hyperbole, providing a commentary on the pressures and manipulations associated with romantic commitments.

Enrique Santos Discépolo

Enrique Santos Discépolo was a renowned Argentine musician and songwriter, celebrated for his profound and often sardonically humorous tango lyrics.