Siga el corso by Francisco García Jiménez

Siga el corso is a Tango written by Francisco García Jiménez and composed by Anselmo Aieta.

Story behind the Tango Siga el corso

“Siga el corso” reflects the vivid and ephemeral excitement of carnival (“Carnaval” in Spanish). The lyrics tell the story of masked revelers, showcasing themes of mystery, desire, and fleeting encounters. Characters like Colombina and a marquise display external festivity contrasted with deeper, personal emotions. The recurring request to remove the mask (“¡Sacate el antifaz!”) symbolizes the yearning to reveal true identities and emotions hidden by everyday personas.

Symbolism of Siga el corso

The lyrics are rich with symbolism, especially through the carnival setting which itself is a time when social norms are inverted, and hidden desires come to the forefront. Masks and costumes are central symbols in the song, suggesting themes of concealment and revelation. Phrases like “Por besar a un clown” (to kiss a clown) highlight the irony and sadness behind the joyous façade. The reference to “todo el año es Carnaval” (all year is Carnival) suggests that people continually wear masks, not just during the carnival but in daily life, hiding their true selves.

Siga el corso in historic Context

Written in 1953, during a period of significant social and political change in Argentina, “Siga el corso” uses the carnival as a metaphor to comment on the broader societal facade. The post-World War II era was marked by a mix of optimism and underlying tension, reflected in the festive yet introspective tone of the lyrics. The choice of carnival, a popular celebration in Latin America, as a setting allows the song to resonate deeply with cultural identity and the social issues of the time.

Francisco García Jiménez

Francisco García Jiménez was a renowned Argentine lyricist known for his profound and evocative contributions to the genre of Tango.