Nunca mas by Francisco Lomuto

Nunca mas is a Tango written by and composed by Francisco Lomuto.

Story behind the Tango Nunca mas

The tango “Nunca más” unfolds a tale of heartache and betrayal wrapped in the emotive ballad of lost love. The lyrics capture a moment of nostalgic longing experienced during a night of feigned joy, conjured by the memory of a beloved who has departed. The narrator reflects on the happiness once shared, tempered by the bitterness of abandonment. As he immerses himself in a world of tango, wine, and reckless indulgence, he struggles with sorrow and solitary tears, expressing a deep sense of betrayal and longing.

Symbolism of Nunca mas

The symbolism in “Nunca más” underscores the tangled emotions of love and loss. The “eyes” that are recalled signify a powerful, haunting memory that refuses to fade. The tango, wine, and orgy symbolize a descent into distraction and escapism, where the narrator attempts to dull his emotional pain. The “puppet-like doll” language reflects the superficial charm of the beloved, veiling inner coldness and unkindness, further emphasized by burning imagery of the heart. The repeated phrase “nunca más” embodies finality and heartbreak, a metaphorical death of the relationship. The narrator’s call never to return signals an acknowledgment of permanent loss.

Nunca mas in historic Context

Written in 1941 in Buenos Aires, “Nunca más” emerges from the golden age of tango, a time when the music and dance encapsulated the spirit of the city’s nightlife and the emotional intensity of its residents. The era was marked by cultural vibrancy and social upheaval, elements which are mirrored in tango’s melancholy and passion. The song channels the pervasive sense of urban melancholy and nostalgia prevalent in tango music of that period, reflecting a broader historical context of longing amidst complex personal and societal transformations.

The Composer

Francisco Lomuto was an influential Argentine composer and orchestra leader known for his contributions to tango in the early and mid-20th century. His work remains a critical part of Argentina’s cultural heritage, capturing the essence of Buenos Aires’ musical soul.