Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ
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These Tangos, Valses, and Milongas were recorded around the same time. Take a look to discover what else this orchestra—or others—may have recorded during the same week or even on the exact same day.
Patria mia is a Tango written by Héctor Marcó and composed by Pedro Laurenz.
“Patria mia,” which translates to “My Homeland” in English, resonates deeply with themes of national pride and personal affection towards Argentina. The lyrics poetically express the believers’ blessings upon the homeland, evoking powerful imagery of nature, tradition, and homegrown love. The opening lines depict celestial beings celebrating the land, setting a reverent tone that celebrates the nation’s sublime beauty and spiritual significance. This tango is a personal tribute to the singer’s homeland, connecting deeply rooted cultural elements such as the local flora, fauna, and folk figures like Santos Vega, a renowned folk poet and payador (singer).
The symbolism in “Patria mia” is rich and multifaceted, painting a vivid picture of the Argentinian landscape and its cultural heritage. The references to “luna campesina” (peasant moon) and “lámparas de amor” (lamps of love) in the stars evoke a pastoral and romantic view of the countryside, symbolizing purity and tranquility. The mention of Santos Vega in the lines connects the song to a symbolic figure in Argentinian folklore, representing the soul and voice of the gaucho (traditional cowboy) culture. Lastly, the imagery of a ranch, butterflies, and local flora captures the serene and simple pleasures of rural life, grounding the song in a particular geographical and emotional space.
The tango “Patria mia” was recorded during the challenging times of 1943, a period marked by political unrest and the rise of nationalism in Argentina. During this era, such expressions of deep nationalistic pride and affection towards one’s homeland resonated strongly with the populace. The song doesn’t just celebrate the physical beauty of Argentina but also serves as a rallying cry for unity and pride among its people. By invoking symbols and terms such as “hornero” (a bird symbolic of home-building) and “ombú” (a native tree known for its massive shade), the song fosters a sense of belonging and peace—ideals that were particularly poignant in a time of uncertainty.
Héctor Marcó was a respected lyricist in the Argentine tango scene, known for his evocative texts that often explored themes of love, identity, and national pride.