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.
Perdón viejita is a Tango written by José Saldías and composed by Osvaldo Fresedo.
The tango “Perdón viejita” narrates the heartfelt apology of a son who once left his mother to pursue a passionate but ultimately ill-fated romance. Ignoring his mother’s cautionary advice, he was blinded by love and left her without a goodbye. Eventually, the romance failed, leaving him to confront the pain he caused. The lyrics reflect his remorse as he returns to seek his mother’s forgiveness and bless her in her old age, promising to compensate for the sorrow he caused by bringing joy into her life as she becomes a grandmother.
The tango uses powerful symbols to convey deep emotional and moral messages. The act of “kneeling” and “kissing hands” symbolizes deep respect and penance, indicating the protagonist’s genuine repentance. Expressions such as “en tu vejez” (in your old age) underline the time passed and opportunities missed, enhancing the emotional weight of reconciliation. The phrase “serás abuela” (you will be a grandmother) symbolizes renewal and the continuity of life, suggesting that the return of the son brings not just apologies but also hope and regeneration to the family.
In 1949 Argentina, traditional values such as family loyalty and respect for elders held significant societal importance. The narrative of “Perdón viejita” reflects these values, addressing themes of repentance and familial duties. Post World War II era saw individualistic pursuits clashing with traditional collective family responsibilities, similar to the son’s initial abandonment of familial love for personal passion. This historical context plays into the deep emotionality and resonant regret portrayed in the tango, making it both a personal and culturally reflective piece.
José Saldías was a prolific Argentine writer known for his emotional depth in tango lyrics, capturing the complex interplay of personal feelings and societal values.