Pelele by Eugenio Cardenas

Pelele is a Tango written by Eugenio Cardenas and composed by Pedro Maffia.

Story behind the Tango Pelele

“Pelele” narrates the sorrow of a woman deeply hurt by a failed love, highlighting themes of betrayal, unrequited love, and emotional devastation. The protagonist, referred to as “percanta” and “milonguerita,” symbolizes the archetypal woman of the tango genre—torn by love and abandoned. Her continual sorrow and the imagery of crying reflect the depth of her emotional pain, living in isolation, longing for a past that betrayed her yet she still cherishes.

Symbolism of Pelele

The recurring use of “pobrecita” (poor little one) emphasizes her vulnerability and the sympathy she invokes. The terms “milonguerita” and “cotorrito” (referring to her small living space) not only depict her as a dancer of the milongas but also hint at her marginalized status in society, confined both emotionally and physically. “Papusa,” another term used, colloquially means a pretty doll, further emphasizing her delicate, perhaps superficially admired, existence. The symbolism of her destined path “del oscuro cabaret” suggests inevitability and descent into a darker world, possibly reflecting societal judgments on women in her position during that era.

Pelele in historic Context

Recorded in 1969, amidst Argentina’s politically and socially turbulent times, “Pelele” resonates with themes of disillusionment and despair, reflecting broader societal sentiments. The tango, a deeply expressive form used to portray intense emotions and narratives, serves as a vehicle to comment on personal tragedies intertwined with societal attitudes towards love, betrayal, and the treatment of women. The imagery of loneliness and the dark cabaret may also subtly hint at the era’s political repression and social isolation.

Eugenio Cardenas

Eugenio Cardenas, renowned for his poignant lyrics, captures deep emotional narratives through his tangos, often focusing on themes of love, loss, and social commentary.