Por qué le llaman amor by

Por qué le llaman amor is a Tango written by and composed by Carlos di Sarli.

Story behind the Tango Por qué le llaman amor

The tango “Por qué le llaman amor” explores the complexities and paradoxes of love, presenting it as a force that is both life-giving and destructive. The lyrics delve into the emotional turmoil and confusion that love can bring, questioning its true nature and the pain often associated with it. The narrative is imbued with a sense of longing and despair, reflecting a deeply personal struggle with understanding and defining love.

Symbolism of Por qué le llaman amor

The song employs several powerful symbols to enhance its meaning. The comparison of love to hatred (“Fuerte es como el odio”) suggests the intensity and sometimes destructive nature of love. Meanwhile, the image of “Mi vida que muere cual fiel mariposa / Clavada a tus carnes, con un alfiler” evokes the fragility and suffering caused by love, likening it to a butterfly pinned through its body. These symbols underscore the complex emotions and paradoxes presented throughout the lyrics.

Por qué le llaman amor in historic Context

Composed in Buenos Aires in 1954, this tango reflects the cultural context of mid-20th-century Argentina, a time when tango was both a popular art form and a vehicle for deep emotional expression. During this era, Argentina was grappling with political instability and socio-economic issues, which often seeped into the arts, allowing for themes of angst and existential questioning to flourish. This backdrop provides an added layer of poignancy to the tango’s exploration of love’s darker facets.

is a celebrated lyricist whose work in the tango world has left a lasting imprint. Known for crafting poetry that beautifully captures the human experience and emotions, played a significant role in defining the era’s tango scene.