Percal by Homero Expósito

Percal is a Tango written by Homero Expósito and composed by Domingo Federico.

Story behind the Tango Percal

The lyrics of “Percal” reflect a poignant story of nostalgia, loss, and the inevitability of change. The song centers around a narrative of a young girl who once wore a simple cotton dress (‘percal’) symbolizing her modest, youthful ambitions and innocence. It tells of her ventures from home with dreams of conquering the city, only to eventually lose her youthful ideals and the literal and metaphorical fabric of her past. As the lyrics unfold, they reveal the harsh realities faced and the sacrifices made, underscored by a deep sense of regret and reminiscence about her simpler beginnings.

Symbolism of Percal

The term “percal” symbolizes far more than just a cotton fabric in this tango; it encapsulates the essence of youth, purity, and modest beginnings. The recurrent mention of the dress made of ‘percal’ signifies a connection to a past life, echoing themes of nostalgia and lost innocence. Key phrases like “anhelos de sufrir y amar” (desires to suffer and love) and “te olvidaste el percal” (you forgot the percal), underline the transformation and eventual disconnection from her roots. The fabric becomes a metaphor for the dreams and the identity that were left behind in pursuit of other desires.

Percal in historic Context

The song was penned and composed in 1961, a time when Argentina was undergoing significant social and cultural changes. The post-war era led to rapid urbanization and a transformation in societal values. “Percal” thus subtly captures this shift from traditional to modern, from rural to urban, reflecting the conflicts and challenges that came with these changes. The girl’s move from her home to the city mirrors the broader migration patterns and societal shifts occurring in Argentina at the time.

Homero Expósito

Homero Expósito was a pivotal figure in Argentine tango, known for his profound lyrics filled with intricate metaphors and emotional depth.