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.
La cieguita is a Tango written by Ramuncho (Ramón Bertrán Reyna) and composed by Keppler Lais.
The tango “La cieguita” tells a poignant story of a blind girl (“la cieguita”), observed with her elderly guide, likely her grandmother, on a public walk. The narrative picks up on the girl’s existential despair and curiosity about not being able to play like other children. This scene evokes a deep emotional response from the narrator who reflects on his own personal loss, which becomes evident towards the end of the tango. Key phrases such as “¿Por qué yo no he de jugar?” (“Why can I not play?”) excruciatingly encapsulate the girl’s innocence and longing for normalcy, further highlighting the disparity faced by those with disabilities.
The constant juxtaposition of the girl’s blindness against the vibrant life around her symbolizes isolation and the cruelty of fate, as seen in the empty but large eyes (“ojos grandes y vacíos”). The often-repeated exclamations, “¡Ay, cieguita!” serve as laments but also as cries for understanding and awareness from society. It also reflects deep empathy from the narrator, who later reveals a personal connection to the girl’s plight, enhancing the emotional depth of the tango. This connection between the narrator and the blind girl is symbolized in his participative resolve to play with her, filling a void left by her inability to interact with other children normally.
“La cieguita” was recorded in Argentina in 1949, a period marked by political and social changes post-World War II. The focus on personal tragedy and resilience resonates with the larger narrative of survival and rebuilding during that era. This tango, by bringing attention to the marginalized, reflects a society grappling with its disparities and the need for compassion and human connection amidst recovery and growth. The mention of everyday places like the park benches indicates a move towards normalcy yet the story serves as a reminder of the unseen struggles many continue to face.
Ramuncho (Ramón Bertrán Reyna) was an influential figure in the Tango scene, known for capturing deep human emotions and societal issues through his poignant lyrics.