Nunca tuvo novio by Enrique Cadícamo

Nunca tuvo novio is a Tango written by Enrique Cadícamo and composed by Agustín Bardi.

Story behind the Tango Nunca tuvo novio

The Tango “Nunca tuvo novio” dives into the melancholy life of a woman who never experienced romantic love. The song portrays her as a solitary figure trapped in her own world of sadness and unfulfilled desires, reading old romantic novels, perhaps as a form of escapism from her lonely reality. The lyrics flesh out her emotional state, sharing how tears accompany her yearning for a love never experienced, magnifying her solitude amidst her advancing years.

Symbolism of Nunca tuvo novio

Symbolism in “Nunca tuvo novio” is poignant, with multiple elements enhancing the emotional depth of the lyrics. The ‘old romantic novels’ symbolize unfulfilled dreams and the woman’s longing for a love like those she reads about, which starkly contrasts her reality. The ‘rain hitting the glass’ of her window portrays her isolation and the barrier between her inner world and the outside world. Further, the direct translation of “Nunca tuvo novio” to “She never had a boyfriend” underscores the central theme of unattained love and loneliness.

Nunca tuvo novio in historic Context

“Nunca tuvo novio,” released on September 14, 1959, reflects the prevailing gender norms and expectations of women in Argentine society at the time. During this era, a woman’s value was often measured by her relationship status, thus to reach a certain age ‘without a boyfriend’ might imply personal failure or societal rejection. The song captures this aspect subtly, providing a lens to understand the societal pressures and emotional distress faced by women who differed from the norm.

Enrique Cadícamo

Enrique Cadícamo was a prominent Argentine poet and Tango lyricist known for his profound and emotive compositions.