Trenzas by Homero Exposito

Trenzas is a Tango written by Homero Exposito and composed by Armando Pontier.

Story behind the Tango Trenzas

Trenzas, which translates to “Braids” in English, paints an evocative image of intertwined lives marked by depth of love and the agony of parting. The lyrics mournfully question the whereabouts of a lover’s wildflower-like affection after their departure, exploring the emotional landscape that one navigates in the wake of lost love. Homero Exposito uses the recurring image of braids as a soft and delicate symbol bound together by memories and the visceral feeling of absence.

Symbolism of Trenzas

The central symbol in this tango is the braids (“trenzas”), which represent both the connection and the entanglement in the speaker’s relationship. Exposito describes them as “seda dulce” (sweet silk), implying a tender, yet binding nature. This duality is deepened by references to the braids being like “yugo casi blando” (almost gentle yoke), suggesting a bond that is at once soft and restraining. The imagery of the braids as “nudo atroz de cuero crudo” (terrible knot of raw leather) in the final verse starkly contrasts with earlier descriptions, highlighting the pain and permanence of separation.

Trenzas in historic Context

Released in 1971, during a period of immense cultural and political change in Argentina, Trenzas resonates with themes of loss and longing reflective of a broader societal mood. The metaphor of “mate amargo” (bitter mate) aligns with traditional Argentine culture, wherein mate represents communal gatherings and shared stories. The pain and nostalgia expressed in the lyrics may subtly mirror the public’s emotional state during a time of social unrest, hinting at a collective yearning for what was once familiar and safe.

Homero Exposito

Homero Exposito was a prominent Argentine lyricist and poet, famed for his contributions to the Tango genre. His works often delve deep into themes of love, nostalgia, and human emotion.