Malvón by Francisco García Jiménez

Malvón is a Tango written by Francisco García Jiménez and composed by Oscar Arona.

Story behind the Tango Malvón

The song “Malvón” evokes nostalgic memories of the quaint neighborhood of San Telmo in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This tango, primarily a lyrical journey back to the singer’s past, paints a vibrant scene of a balcony, sun, and the geraniums (malvón) that symbolize enduring beauty in the face of urban change. The structure of the song alternates between descriptions of physical spaces and the emotional response they elicit, suggesting a deep connection between place and feeling.

Symbolism of Malvón

“Malvón, balcón y sol,” the key phrase repeated throughout the song, encapsulates its core symbol—the geranium. In Argentine culture, geraniums are often seen decorating balconies and windowsills, signifying life and continuity amidst urban encroachment. The singer uses these simple elements to resurrect feelings of happiness, innocence, and simplicity from his childhood. Furthermore, the contrast between “altas casas” (high houses) and the longing for “sombras de zaguán” (shadows of the hallway) and “patios con parral” (courtyards with grapevines), symbolizes a yearning for a past where life was more connected to nature and tradition.

Malvón in Historic Context

The song “Malvón” was recorded in 1943, a significant period in Argentine history, marked by the rise of populism and nationalist sentiments. This was a time when Argentine society began shifting significantly, with urbanization growing and rural markers fading. Such a setting serves as a poignant backdrop for the song’s themes of memory and loss. The nostalgia expressed in the lyrics likely resonates with many individuals who felt displaced or disoriented by the rapid changes in their surroundings during this era.

Francisco García Jiménez

Francisco García Jiménez was a renowned lyricist in Argentina, known for his deep and evocative portrayals of urban life in his tango compositions.