Tres esperanzas by Enrique Santos Discépolo

Tres esperanzas is a Tango written by Enrique Santos Discépolo and composed by Enrique Santos Discépolo.

Story behind the Tango Tres esperanzas

“Tres esperanzas” translates to “Three Hopes” in English, a poignant title foreshadowing the themes of hope and despair woven throughout the lyrics. The narrator reflects on three significant hopes in his life—his mother, society, and love—all of which have either deceived him or vanished. Through this introspective narrative, Discépolo explores the crushing weight of disillusionment and the desire for release from suffering.

Symbolism of Tres esperanzas

Discépolo uses powerful symbols to depict his existential angst. The “bufoso” likely refers to a firearm, symbolizing the thoughts of escaping through suicide. The phrases “alma otaria” (foolish soul) and feeling “destrozao” (destroyed) illustrate internal battles and profound emotional turmoil. The color imagery in “dos eran blancas y una punzó” (two were white and one crimson) could signify purity and love juxtaposed with pain or betrayal, enhancing the stark contrasts between his hopes and reality.

Tres esperanzas in historical context

Written in Argentina in 1933, a period of economic instability and political upheaval following the Great Depression which impacted worldwide economies, “Tres esperanzas” reflects the common man’s struggle during hard times. Disillusionment and loss are central themes, reflecting broader societal despondency. This tango emerges not just as a personal story but as a narrative echoing the collective despair of a populace grappling with broken promises and shattered dreams.

Enrique Santos Discépolo

Enrique Santos Discépolo was a prominent Argentine tango and milonga musician and composer, renowned for his poignant and thoughtful lyrics that often reflected on societal issues and human emotions.