Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ
Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ
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These Tangos, Valses, and Milongas were recorded around the same time. Take a look to discover what else this orchestra—or others—may have recorded during the same week or even on the exact same day.
Maula is a Tango written by Víctor Soliño and composed by Adolfo Mondino.
The lyrics of “Maula” expose a poignant narrative of disappointment and reproach towards a man who fails to uphold the ideals of courage and masculinity as expected by the speaker, most likely his partner. She is ashamed and embarrassed by his cowardice, contrasting it with her ideal of a true, daring man who would risk everything with grit and without hesitation. The song revolves around the central character being derided as ‘maula’, meaning weak or cowardly, as he fails to stand up for his partner or himself when insulted, shrinking instead in front of adversity.
The term “maula”, directly translated to “coward” in English, carries deep disdain and symbolic weight in the context of the Tango. Each verse builds upon this idea of cowardice contrasted against the expected bravery. The imagery of courage “la vida en una carta,” implying betting life as if it were a card game, and “igual que una mujer” comparing his emotional responses improperly to those stereotypically expected of women, further deepens his perceived failings. This symbolism not only enhances the emotional charge but also critiques societal expectations of gender roles and machismo.
“Maula” was written at a time when Tango was a prominent aspect of Argentinian culture, often reflecting societal values and personal emotions deeply entwined with notions of honor, pride, and personal integrity. The setting of a ‘boliche’ (local bar), often central in Tango culture, sets the scene where the public insult occurs, magnifying the disgrace in failing to meet the cultural mandates of male bravado and protection. The historical appetite for these narratives in 1927 Argentina resonated with a common social commentary about masculinity and personal valor within relationships and community standing.
Víctor Soliño was a prominent lyricist and composer, known for his contributions to the Tango music scene in the early 20th century in Argentina.