Manos brujas by José María Aguilar

Manos brujas is a Tango written and composed by José María Aguilar.

Story behind the Tango Manos brujas

“Manos brujas,” meaning “Witch Hands” in English, tells a tale of love, betrayal, and emotional suffering, all orchestrated by the bewitching hands of a beloved. The lyrics narrate the journey of a lover who was merely a “toy of love” under the enchantment of perfect yet deceptive hands. These hands, despite being a source of initial joy and pleasure, ultimately led to nothing but pain and disillusionment. This metaphor reflects deep emotional manipulations and unfulfilled dreams.

Symbolism of Manos brujas

The primary symbols in “Manos brujas” are the hands of the lover, depicted as both magical and cursed. They represent the power one person can have over another, particularly in romantic contexts, highlighting how affection and cruelty can intertwine. The imagery of “hands” as manipulative yet alluring tools in the dance of love is potent. Key phrases like “Bajo el hechizo de tus manos,” translating to “Under the spell of your hands,” emphasize the enchantment and control these hands held over the narrator, which is both intoxicating and destructive.

Manos brujas in historic Context

Created in Argentina in 1944, “Manos brujas” emerged during a time of significant cultural and political change. The mid-20th century was a period where tango music expressed deep emotional and societal struggles. Post-World War II, Argentina faced its own internal conflicts and transformations. In this context, “Manos brujas” could be seen as reflecting the broader sense of disillusionment and the search for relief from societal pressures through personal narratives of love and betrayal.

José María Aguilar

José María Aguilar was an influential Argentine composer and guitarist, known for his contributions to the realm of Tango music.