Remolino by José Rótulo

Remolino is a Tango written by José Rótulo and composed by Alfredo De Angelis.

Story behind the Tango Remolino

Remolino, a poignant tango by José Rótulo, captures a whirlwind of emotional tumult and unyielding despair. The lyrics evoke a sense of relentless yearning and heartache, revealing a narrative where the speaker grapples with the lingering presence of a lost love. This enduring struggle is depicted as a swirl of memories and emotional chaos, suggesting a personal torment that revolves perpetually around the specter of the beloved.

Symbolism of Remolino

The term “remolino” itself, which translates to “whirlwind” in English, is central to understanding the piece’s depth. This natural phenomenon symbolizes uncontrollable force and chaos, mirroring the inner turmoil of the narrator. Key phrases such as “Son remolinos con tu nombre y mi locura” (They are whirlwinds with your name and my madness) and “con tu risa y mi amargura” (with your laughter and my bitterness), poignantly illustrate how love and despair are intertwined, each feeding into and exacerbating the other, creating a perpetual cycle of emotional unrest.

Remolino in Historic Context

Recorded in 1946, a tumultuous time for Argentina marked by political unrest and societal change, “Remolino” reflects a broader sense of uncertainty and transformation. The personal turmoil depicted in the tango could also mirror the collective state of confusion and despair felt by many during this era in Argentina. Thus, the themes of loss and yearning extend beyond the personal to touch a universal chord among those experiencing societal shifts and the disillusionment of post-war landscapes.

José Rótulo

José Rótulo was a prominent lyricist in the Argentine tango scene, known for his deep and stirring compositions that often explored themes of heartache and melancholy.