Milonga de mis amores by José María Contursi

Milonga de mis amores is a Tango written by José María Contursi and composed by Pedro Laurenz.

Story behind the Tango Milonga de mis amores

The lyrics of “Milonga de mis amores” paint a deep, nostalgic portrayal of a bygone era reflected through the sights and sounds of milonga music, interwoven with personal grief and memories. The author expresses his emotional journey starting with a fond recollection of milonga, symbolizing a vibrant past with its upbeat rhythms and lively dances, which he perceives as now lost to time and change. As the verses unfold, it becomes evident that this is not only a song about the fading tradition of milonga but also an intimate reflection on personal loss and the quest for solace in familiar yet transforming surroundings.

Symbolism of Milonga de mis amores

The milonga itself, a traditional form of music and dance, symbolizes the connection to the author’s past, embodying the spirit and cultural essence of his youthful environment. Phrases like “milonga de otros tiempos” and “engarzada en los acordes de una lírica guitarra” indicate a profound bond with tradition and the personal resonance music holds. The imagery surrounding the ‘lírica guitarra’ and the sound that “criolla como vos” invokes cultural identity, focusing on its roots in Creole culture which is intrinsic to Argentine history.

Milonga de mis amores in Historic Context

Released in 1937 amidst evolving Argentine landscapes, “Milonga de mis amores” reflects a nostalgic lament for the changing face of local neighborhoods (barriada) impacted by the advent of modernism, seen in lines about progress destroying the ‘arrabal’ (suburb or neighborhood). This was a time when Buenos Aires was rapidly urbanizing, moving away from old traditions to a more global cityscape. The song adeptly captures the alienation felt by those who cherished the old ways, emphasizing a deep sense of loss with “El progreso ha destrozado toda la emoción de mi arrabal” which highlights the displacement felt by traditional communities.

José María Contursi

José María Contursi was a prolific Argentine poet and lyricist known for his contributions to the tango genre. His works often delve into themes of love, nostalgia, and personal reflection.