No creas by Luis Castiñeira

No creas is a Tango written by Luis Castiñeira and composed by Benjamín Holgado Barrio.

Story behind the Tango No creas

“No creas” delves deeply into the themes of love, loss, regret, and redemption. The protagonist of the song reflects on their past, recounting how they once believed that wandering aimlessly—or “rolling”—would help them forget their sorrows, only to find that forgetting was not so simple. The poignant cry for forgiveness in the song indicates a return to a past love, seeking redemption and closure from the pain of that initial departure. This narrative evokes a deep sense of longing and the persistent hold of past love.

Symbolism of No creas

The repeated references to “¡Rodar!” symbolize an attempt at escapism, trying to outpace one’s own shadows. However, this movement never achieves its goal, as the internal struggle and the emotional burden remain ever-present and resurface, underscoring the futility of running from one’s problems. The imagery of drinking numerous glasses to drown sorrow, yet failing to reach oblivion, further accentuates the depth of the protagonist’s emotional state. Phrases like “Vengo en busca de un perdón” (I come in search of forgiveness) symbolize a deeply human need for reconciliation and peace.

No creas in historic Context

Released in 1943 Argentina, the world was experiencing the turbulent times of World War II, though Argentina remained neutral for much of it. During these times, Tango often mirrored the general sentiment of uncertainty and emotional turmoil. The protagonist’s journey in “No creas” perhaps metaphorically aligns with the era’s atmosphere of searching for stability and meaning in a world plagued by unpredictability and change. This backdrop might explain the longing for past certainties and the sorrow over their loss evident in the lyrics.

Luis Castiñeira

Luis Castiñeira was a notable Argentine tango lyricist whose works often touched on themes of love, nostalgia, and personal reflection.