Tabaco by

Tabaco is a Tango written by and composed by Armando Pontier.

Story behind the Tango Tabaco

The tango “Tabaco” explores the haunting nature of lost love and the lingering pain of past mistakes. The lyrics unfold in the quiet solitude of night, where the protagonist is tormented by memories and regrets. The voice of a past lover, evoked like a distant rebuke, pervades the darkness, underscoring the isolation and emotional turmoil felt by the narrator. This story is framed by a contemplative introspection, highlighting the internal struggle and self-recrimination for the harm caused to a once-beloved partner.

Symbolism of Tabaco

“Tabaco” employs rich symbolism to convey depth and emotion. The recurring imagery of smoke and fragrance is especially powerful, representing the ephemeral and intangible presence of the loved one. Smoke signifies both presence and absence: it is tangible yet fleeting, much like the cherished memories of the partner who now exists only in the past. The scent of tobacco and the forming smoke are tangible reminders of what was lost, encapsulating the protagonist’s feelings of longing and remorse. Key phrases such as “mis manos tus manos amantes” highlight the physical yearning and emotional loss, while “mi corazón, desgarrado” speaks to the deep-seated pain and self-blame that haunts the narrator.

Tabaco in historic Context

Created in 1944 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the tango “Tabaco” reflects a time of significant social and cultural change. The mid-20th century in Buenos Aires was a period marked by the flourishing of tango as an art form, often conveying themes of nostalgia, longing, and heartbreak that resonated deeply with the urban populace. The era’s backdrop, characterized by global upheavals and a rich cultural tapestry, lends weight to the tango’s narrative of personal hardship and emotional struggle. The use of tobacco as a motif aligns with its cultural significance at the time, as smoking was prevalent in society and often associated with contemplation, relaxation, and sometimes solitude, enhancing the song’s melancholic tone.

Armando Pontier was a prominent Argentine tango composer and conductor, known for his expressive and emotive musical style that contributed significantly to the tango genre during its golden age.