Pura trampa by Lito Bayardo

Pura trampa is a Tango written by Lito Bayardo and composed by Jorge Dragone.

Story behind the Tango Pura trampa

The poignant lyrics of “Pura trampa” narrate a deep and personal tale of disillusionment and unfulfilled promises. The protagonist leaves home without a goodbye, carried by dreams of glory and dedication to his ideals, only to return defeated, finding neither the love nor the home he left behind. The stanzas are a reflection on the pain of departure and the harsh reality faced upon his return, highlighting a common theme of loss and regret.

Symbolism of Pura trampa

The tango extensively uses symbols like “sin un solo adiós” and “triste amanecer,” depicting a departure filled with sorrow and solitude. The lyric “cual vagabundo cargado de pena” also embodies the character’s transformation into a wanderer burdened with grief. The illusion of success, juxtaposed with the reality of his return, illustrates the dichotomy between youthful dreams and the often harsh adult realities, making the song’s title, “Pura trampa” – directly translating to “Pure Trap” – a commentary on the traps set by ambitious dreams and false promises.

Pura trampa in historic Context

Recorded in 1966, a period marked by social and political upheaval in Argentina, “Pura trampa” resonates with the mood of disillusionment prevalent among many Argentinians at the time. The tango could be interpreted as a metaphor for the nation’s collective sentiment – a reflection on the broken promises and dreams of prosperity, mirroring the personal losses portrayed in the song. The narrative of leaving the dawn of “Nueve de Julio”, a historically significant street in Buenos Aires, and returning to find everything changed, parallels the transformations experienced by the country itself.

Lito Bayardo

Lito Bayardo, born Manuel Juan García Ferrari, was a renowned Argentine composer and lyricist known for his profound contributions to the tango genre, vividly capturing the spirit and struggles of his time.