Lagrimitas de mi corazón by

Lagrimitas de mi corazón is a Tango written by and composed by Enrique Rodríguez.

Story behind the Tango Lagrimitas de mi corazón

“Lagrimitas de mi corazón” translates to “Little Tears of My Heart,” and its lyrics delve into themes of unrequited love, betrayal, and heartache. The narrator expresses deep emotional suffering, comparing the pain inflicted by a lover’s betrayal to daggers and fire, which is a poignant illustration of the intensity of their emotional turmoil. The repeated lament about “little tears” evokes a sense of continuous sorrow, as tears, like water in a river, flow steadily away, never to return.

Symbolism of Lagrimitas de mi corazón

The lyrics are rich with symbolic imagery. References to “La Virgen De los Siete Puñales” (The Virgin of the Seven Daggers) signify spiritual and piercing emotional pain, as this Virgin is associated with enduring sorrow. The “hoguera” (bonfire) and its comparison to the lover’s plea signifies burning desire or unresolved passion. The “nieve” (snow), cold yet less than the speaker’s suffering, further deepens the coldness felt in the unloving relationship. Key phrases like “Lagrimitas de mi corazón” capture the essence of a heart gradually eroded by sadness, while “tus ojos traidores” (your treacherous eyes) represents deceptive allure, reminiscent of many tango themes of love’s treachery.

Lagrimitas de mi corazón in historic Context

Written in 1948, “Lagrimitas de mi corazón” emerged in Buenos Aires, Argentina, during a time when tango was evolving both musically and socially. The post-World War II era was marked by a mix of melancholy and hope, reflecting both personal and collective histories. Tango was central to Argentine culture, embodying the mingling of European, African, and indigenous influences, and it was often an expression of the urban working class’s emotional and social realities. The song’s narrative and emotional depth reflect this cultural milieu, where sentiments of longing and loss were widespread, resonating deeply with listeners.

Enrique Rodríguez was a prominent Argentine musician and composer known for his contribution to tango and popular music in the mid-20th century, blending traditional tango with other musical styles.