Mentira by Celedonio Flores

Mentira is a Tango written by Celedonio Flores and composed by Francisco Pracánico.

Story behind the Tango Mentira

“Mentira” (which means “Lie” in English) dives deep into the theme of deceit and the pain of unreciprocated love. The lyrics express the anguish and betrayal felt by a lover who has been deceived by someone they once deeply cherished. The primary emotions conveyed are sorrow, regret, and disbelief, as the narrator reflects on the cherished moments that turned out to be false.

Symbolism of Mentira

The song uses powerful symbols to amplify its message. For instance, the “muñequita de trapo” (rag doll) symbolizes something that is superficially endearing but ultimately lifeless and hollow—mirroring the shallow affections of the loved one. References to sacred promises and invoking the “santa viejita” (holy little old mother) as a witness to false vows heighten the sense of betrayal, blending emotional deceit with sacrilegious undertones.

Mentira in historic Context

Created in 1954 in Argentina, a time and place rich in the evolution of tango, “Mentira” reflects the cultural importance of tango as a vehicle for expressing deep personal and societal emotions. Post-World War II Argentina was marked by significant political and social changes, and tangos like “Mentira” often echoed the personal upheavals of the period. The music and lyrics collectively mourn not just personal loss but also a societal longing for what once was or might have been.

Celedonio Flores

Celedonio Flores was a renowned Argentine lyricist noted for his poignant and heartfelt tango lyrics that often reflected the complexities of love and urban life.