Todo corazón by José María Ruffet

Todo corazón is a Tango written by José María Ruffet and composed by Julio De Caro.

Story behind the Tango Todo corazón

This Tango evokes a poignant narrative of unrequited love and enduring affection in the face of betrayal. The lyrics communicate anguish and frustration, stemming from the partner’s infidelity or abandonment. Despite the betrayal, the singer offers forgiveness and an unwavering readiness to reaccept the partner. The phrase “¿No vez que muero con tu ausencia porque yo soy todo corazón?” translates to “Don’t you see I die in your absence because I am all heart?”, profoundly emphasizing the depth of the protagonist’s emotional commitment.

Symbolism of Todo corazón

The repeated invocation of “todo corazón” or “all heart” in the song serves as a central symbol illustrating the singer’s selfless and encompassing love. The contrasting images of “ansias y amargor” (longing and bitterness) versus the “franca sonrisa de mis labios” (frank smile of my lips) also suggest a dichotomy between the pain of love and the facade put forth to the unfaithful partner. The imagery of the bird returning to the nest, contained in the line “volverás, como el ave vuelve al nido,” symbolizes hope and a natural inclination towards familiarity and love, echoing the theme of relentless devotion.

Todo corazón in historic Context

The Tango Todo corazón, penned in the cultural golden age of Argentina in the 1960s, resonates with themes typical to Tango music – love, passion, and heartbreak. This period, marked by both cultural flourish and political tension, often mirrored such tumultuous relationships in its art. The Tango served as a medium to express deep, often suppressed emotions in a socially acceptable way. The character of the Tango, with its dramatic and intense tone, seemed fitting to reflect the highs and lows conveyed in these lyrics.

José María Ruffet

José María Ruffet was an Argentine poet and lyricist known for his profound and emotionally charged Tango lyrics.