Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ
Style
Orchestra
Singer
Author
Composer
Date
These Tangos, Valses, and Milongas were recorded around the same time. Take a look to discover what else this orchestra—or others—may have recorded during the same week or even on the exact same day.
Sus ojos se cerraron is a Tango written by Alfredo Le Pera and composed by Carlos Gardel.
The poignant lyrics of “Sus ojos se cerraron” tell the story of a deep loss and the enduring pain following the death of a loved one. The title, translating to “Her eyes closed”, immediately sets a somber tone, signaling the eternal departure of the subject. This piece poetically narrates the aftermath of this closure—how the world continues to move forward while the narrator remains frozen in sorrow, unable to find solace even in tears.
The lyrics employ rich symbolism to convey the depth of bereavement. By stating, “su boca que era mía ya no me besa más,” the narrator expresses a personal loss, emphasizing a deep intimate connection that no longer exists. The phrase “se apagaron los ecos de su reír sonoro,” symbolizes the silence that has replaced what once was a source of joy, vividly painting the contrast between past happiness and current suffering. The metaphor of life cruelly burning someone’s wings and the sinister smirk of fate enhance the portrayal of cruel inevitabilities, adding to the depth of the emotional landscape painted by Le Pera.
Released in 1935 in Argentina, a time when tango was a major element of cultural identity, “Sus ojos se cerraron” not only showcases the typical melancholic strain of traditional tango but also mirrors the era’s social atmosphere. The 1930s Argentina was marked by political upheaval and economic struggles, a backdrop that perhaps intensified the personal and communal resonances of loss and disillusionment found in the lyrics. Tango often provided an outlet for expressing the grief and struggles of everyday life, making this song resonate deeply with its audience.
Alfredo Le Pera was an Argentine journalist and lyricist known for his collaborations with the legendary tango composer Carlos Gardel.