Olvidao by Enrique Cadícamo

Olvidao is a Tango written by Enrique Cadícamo and composed by Guillermo Barbieri.

Story behind the Tango Olvidao

Olvidao, which translates to “Forgotten” in English, narrates a tragic love story set within the context of the rural Argentine lifestyle. The lyrics tell of a newly married man, Conteras, whose life is abruptly ended by Juan Luz Mala, who enters the scene to steal the groom’s wife during their wedding celebration at the estancia ‘La Hazaña’. The song unfolds as a dramatic narrative where festivity turns into a deadly event, encapsulating themes of love, betrayal, and sorrow. In his dying words, Conteras expresses a poignant farewell to his wife, asking her not to forget him and to visit his grave, in a recitado (spoken) section that heightens the emotional impact of the story.

Symbolism of Olvidao

Olvidao is rich in symbolic language that underscores the themes of loneliness, betrayal, and the inevitability of death. The reference to “un vientito helado” (a cold little breeze) symbolizes the chilling embrace of death approaching Conteras, touching his heart and signaling his impending demise. The recurring plea to not be forgotten (“olvidao”) and the urge to bring flowers to his grave signify a deep-seated fear of being erased from memory and a longing for continued relevance even in death. The stormy nights and the echoing voice of the deceased in the final verse underscore the restless spirit left behind, yearning for companionship and recognition.

Olvidao in historic Context

The tango was recorded in 1953, a period marked by significant political and social changes in Argentina. This context of transformation and instability might mirror the personal upheaval depicted in the tango’s narrative. The rural setting of ‘La Hazaña’ typifies the traditional lifestyles that were becoming overshadowed by urbanization and modernity during the mid-20th century in Argentina. The tragic incident at a wedding, a communal celebration turned into a nightmare, could also be interpreted as a metaphor for the societal shifts and the loss of old values and securities.

Enrique Cadícamo

Enrique Cadícamo was a renowned Argentine poet and tango lyricist whose works profoundly influenced the tango genre.