No está by José Bohr

No está is a Tango written by an unnamed author and composed by José Bohr.

Story behind the Tango “No está”

The tango “No está” conveys a deep sense of longing and heartbreak. The narrator experiences an intense emotional journey trying to reach out to a loved one who seems to be slipping away. This sentiment is communicated through repeated attempts to contact this person, only to be met with the chilly response that they are “not there.” The lyrics explore the narrator’s anxieties, questions about the sincerity of their partner’s feelings, and the painful realization of unreciprocated love.

Symbolism of “No está”

Throughout the song, the use of recurring phrases like “Cada vez que te llamo” (Every time I call you) and the response “¡No está!” (They’re not here) symbolize the growing emotional distance and the coldness replacing what was once warmth. This phrase encapsulates the frustration and inevitability of unmet expectations and unfulfilled desires. The lyrics also evoke the universal theme of betrayal and the cyclical nature of love, as the narrator reflects upon past promises and predicts future cycles of heartache.

No está in Historic Context

Created in 1942 Buenos Aires, “No está” emerges from a period marked by social and political changes in Argentina, where tango was a powerful cultural expression. The melancholic and emotional depth of the lyrics is reflective of the tango’s role during this era as a poignant commentary on personal and societal hardships. Buenos Aires, a vibrant city with a thriving tango scene, provided the perfect backdrop for such emotive storytelling, capturing universal human experiences amidst challenging times.

José Bohr

José Bohr was a noted composer and filmmaker who played a significant role in the Argentine cultural scene, particularly known for his contributions to the Golden Age of Tango and film.