Retintín by Gabriel Clausi

Retintín is a Tango written by Gabriel Clausi and composed by Eduardo Arolas.

Story behind the Tango Retintín

“Retintín” portrays the journey of a character named Rafael, searching for love in the vibrant street corners and milongas of Argentina. The lyrics reveal his longing to find “la dueña de su amor” or “the owner of his love”. This search is portrayed as both a physical and emotional journey, suggesting a deep sense of loneliness and desire for companionship.

Symbolism of Retintín

The term “retintín” itself symbolizes a persistent, resounding presence in the neighborhood—much like the repetitive chime of a bell in “campana de arrabal.” This representation reflects Rafael’s persistent search for love. When he refers to himself as a “retintín”, it emphasizes his continuous and perhaps intrusive presence in his environment, echoing through the arrabal (neighborhood) in search of fulfillment through love. The “patio bordado de tango” and “lindas minas orilleras” illustrate the festive yet melancholic Tango scenes, blending merriment with a deep-seated yearning.

Retintín in historic Context

“Retintín” was composed in 1928, a time when Tango was deeply woven into the fabric of Argentine culture. This period was marked by a mix of economic growth and social change. The lyrics reflect the common themes of the era: love, nostalgia, and the urban experience, painted against the backdrop of Buenos Aires’ lively urban milongas. Nostalgia is deeply felt in phrases like “nostalgia de viejos tiempos” (nostalgia for old times), evoking memories of past loves and experiences in the socio-cultural landscape of early 20th-century Argentina.

Gabriel Clausi

Gabriel Clausi was a notable figure in the Argentine tango scene, recognized for his contributions to both the music and lyrics of the genre.