Mascarita by Enrique Cadícamo

Mascarita is a Tango written by Enrique Cadícamo and composed by Pedro Láurenz.

Story behind the Tango Mascarita

The narrative of “Mascarita” revolves around a festive masquerade ball during the carnival, portraying a mysterious encounter between the narrator and an unidentified woman veiled by a black mask. The lyrics evoke a sense of fleeting connection and intrigue, underlined by the anonymity afforded by the carnival. The repeated reference to dancing, specifically a waltz, reflects the traditional romantic and swirling nature of such encounters during festive celebrations.

Symbolism of Mascarita

“Mascarita,” translating to “little masked one” in English, symbolizes both concealment and revelation. Masks, pivotal in the song, represent the facades people wear, often hiding their true selves in social settings. Yet, paradoxically, they allow for uninhibited freedom and expression otherwise restrained by societal norms. Phrases like “¡Oh, máscara fugaz!” emphasize the transient, elusive nature of such hidden identities. Moreover, the flowing, “ondulante” music paralleled with the “nervioso” atmosphere mirrors the emotional turbulence hidden behind the physical disguises at the carnival.

Mascarita in historic Context

Recorded in 1940 in Argentina, “Mascarita” reflects a period marked by cultural vibrancy and complex social dynamics. The tango, emblematic of Argentine identity, often intertwined with the themes of love, passion, and sometimes melancholy. The reference to “carnaval” points to a popular Latin American tradition, particularly resonant in an era where such festivals provided a crucial escape from everyday hardships and uncertainties, potentially compounded by the global atmosphere pre-World War II.

Enrique Cadícamo

Enrique Cadícamo was an esteemed Argentine lyricist and poet, renowned for his significant contributions to the tango genre.