La manzanita by

La manzanita is a Tango written by and composed by.

Story behind the Tango La manzanita

The tango ‘La manzanita’ translates to ‘The Little Apple’ in English, and it spins a narrative centered around love and desire, symbolized through apples. The singer compares himself to Adam, who joined in marriage with Eve due to a single fruit, lamenting his own purchase of many apples yet still remaining unable to marry. The song conveys a story of unrequited or difficult love, with the protagonist willing to go to great lengths, including buying land with apple trees, to win the affection of his beloved.

Symbolism of La manzanita

In ‘La manzanita’, apples serve as a strong symbol, representing love, desire, and possibly temptation, akin to the biblical story of Adam and Eve. The phrase “Yo compro muchas manzanas y no me puedo casar” highlights the protagonist’s frustration and the futile efforts in his pursuit of love. Apples wrapped in “fino papel de seda” (fine silk paper) suggest something precious and coveted, enhancing the theme of cherished, yet unattainable love. The recurring exclamation, “¡Qué rica la manzanita!” underlines the allure and sweetness of the desired love, just out of reach.

La manzanita in historic Context

Recorded in 1960, ‘La manzanita’ emerged during a vibrant period of Argentine tango. This was a time when cultural expression was exploring more personal and introspective themes, possibly reflecting the social and political environments of Argentina. The lyrical focus on personal strife and aspiration can be seen as a reflection of the common man’s daily experiences and challenges. The economic implications of needing to acquire property (“Un campito con manzanos”) to win love might also reflect societal expectations and pressures during that era.

The writer and composer of ‘La manzanita’, though not named, likely held a significant grasp of traditional Argentine folklore and tango culture, blending everyday subjects with deeper emotional threads through music and lyrics.