Por qué doblan las campanas by José Rótulo

Por qué doblan las campanas is a Tango written by José Rótulo and composed by Alfredo De Angelis.

Story behind the Tango Por qué doblan las campanas

The lyrics of “Por qué doblan las campanas” tell a poignant story set in a village where the ringing of the bells undergoes a transformation from a cheerful morning routine to a solemn announcement of invasion, and finally to a triumphant peal celebrating the return home of those who went to fight. Starting with the everyday joyous tolling and the scattering of doves, the narrative sharply turns with the arrival of an invader, as indicated by the disruptive blare of trumpets, leading to prayers for mercy and peace.

Symbolism of Por qué doblan las campanas

The church bells, or “campanas,” symbolize various emotional and community signals throughout the tango. Initially, they represent normalcy and joy, as suggested by their “alegrías de cencerro” (joyous peals). However, the tone shifts dramatically with the phrase “ha llegado el invasor” (the invader has arrived), where the bells then signify alarm and a call to arms, eventually transforming into a sound of gratitude and peace as those who fought return home. This progression reveals the bells as a central auditory symbol for the changing fates of the village, echoing its sorrows and joys.

Por qué doblan las campanas in historic Context

Recorded in 1951, a time post-World War II, “Por qué doblan las campanas” echoes the global sentiments of recovery and longing for peace. Argentina, although geographically distant from the primary conflicts, was not untouched by the consequences of the war. The return to peace and normalcy as mentioned in the tango likely resonated deeply with an audience familiar with the anxieties and reliefs associated with wartime and its aftermath. The piece captures the universal desire for the end of conflict and a return to everyday joys signified by life’s simple sounds, like ringing bells and singing springs.

José Rótulo

José Rótulo was an influential figure in Tango, providing deep narratives and emotive lyrics that resonate with the complex social and cultural fabrics of his times.