La bordadora by Venancio Clauso

La bordadora is a Tango written by Venancio Clauso and composed by Roberto Firpo.

Story behind the Tango La bordadora

The lyrics of “La bordadora” (The Embroiderer) unfold the heart-wrenching story of a woman who devotes her love to embroidering the initial of the man she adores, believing it symbolizes their bond. However, she discovers that her passion and dreams are unrequited as the man is set to marry another. The narrative follows her moving from joyous anticipation to profound despair and then to a stoic acceptance, continuing her craft without bitterness but with a concealed sorrowful heart.

Symbolism of La bordadora

The act of embroidery in “La bordadora” symbolizes love, dedication, and the personal touch the protagonist places in her hopeful union with her beloved. Key phrases such as “todo su amor puso en bordar” (she put all her love into embroidering) and “bordó con lágrimas de amor” (she embroidered with tears of love) highlight the depth of her feelings and how they are infused into her embroidery. The monogram, which she embroiders, initially stands for a shared future but later changes into a symbol of her heartbreak and personal loss.

La bordadora in historic Context

Set in Argentina in 1935, “La bordadora” reflects the societal expectations and roles of women during this period. The focus on embroidery, a traditionally feminine and domestic skill, emphasizes the limited scope of women’s roles and their emotional worlds often tied to marital prospects. The Tango, popular during this period, often explored themes of unrequited love, sorrow, and the contrast between public appearances and private feelings, which aligns well with the story of “La bordadora”.

Venancio Clauso

Venancio Clauso was a significant contributor to the Argentine Tango, crafting lyrics that often explored deep emotional and societal themes.