Palais de glace by Enrique Cadícamo

Palais de glace is a Tango written by Enrique Cadícamo and composed by Enrique Cadícamo.

Story behind the Tango Palais de glace

“Palais de glace,” which translates to “Ice Palace,” encapsulates an era gone by, reflecting upon the social ambiance of the early 20th century in Buenos Aires. Through his lyrics, Cadícamo expresses nostalgia for his youthful escapades within the walls of a beloved venue which no longer exists. The venue, an actual ice rink dating back to 1912 located on Quiroga street, became a cultural hub for Tango lovers, where dreams and dances were shared among friends.

Symbolism of Palais de glace

The central motif in “Palais de glace” is the dance hall itself, representing a lost epoch cherished by the persona. The repeated reminiscence of dancing student tangos symbolizes youthful innocence and a communal sense of joy. Phrases like “Noches del Palé de Glas! Ilusion de llevar el compás” metaphorically convey the rhythmic and emotional heartbeat of the Tango culture, which once pulsed strongly but now only lingers in memory. Furthermore, the evocative questioning, “¿Qué fue de aquella rueda de amigos? ¿Dónde están?” illustrates deep yearning and the ephemeral nature of human connections.

Palais de glace in historic Context

Set in 1944, a time when Argentina was marked by political upheaval and cultural transformation, “Palais de glace” serves as a metaphorical safe haven from the external chaos. The Tango, both dance and music, acted as a crucial cultural expression during such turbulent times, offering both an escape and a means to process complex social realities. The venue’s disappearance symbolizes the relentless march of modernity and change, a theme particularly poignant in post-war Argentina where societal structures and norms were rapidly evolving.

Enrique Cadícamo

Enrique Cadícamo was a prominent Argentine poet and tango lyricist, celebrated for his profound contributions to the Tango genre.