Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ
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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.
Tres horas is a Tango written by Alberto Nery and composed by Héctor Varela.
The lyric of “Tres horas” reflects a longing and overwhelming anticipation experienced by the narrator as they wait for a loved one to return. The title itself, “Tres horas,” which translates to “Three Hours” in English, encapsulates the central theme of enduring waiting and the passage of time. The narrative voice struggles with the slow passage of time, depicted as hours that “refuse to pass,” highlighting the emotional weight of each moment spent in anticipation. The lyrics poetically describe the time as being so dense that three hours seem to expand into ten, emphasizing the agony in waiting for the beloved’s arrival.
Symbolism in “Tres horas” adds layers of depth to the simple act of waiting. The “tired bourgeois clock” is a particularly profound symbol; it not only indicates time but also reflects a weary, stagnant bourgeois society, possibly hinting at a deeper socio-political commentary about the era’s atmosphere. Moreover, this line contrasts with the intense emotions of the waiting lover, whose fervent anticipation contrasts sharply with the clock’s indifference. The reference to the “serene evening” leading to a “full moon night” symbolizes transition and climax, suggesting that the fulfillment of love, much like the full moon, is inevitable and beautifully illuminating.
“Tres horas” was created in 1943, a significant period in Argentina marked by political shifts and cultural transformations. This historical context may subtly seep into the tango’s emotions and themes. The period was one of anticipation and uncertainty, somewhat reflected in the lyrics’ pervasive sense of waiting and the emotional turbulence associated with it. Nighttime as the setting also carries connotations of secretive meetings, possibly alluding to the hidden resistances typical in any era of political tension. The inclusion of the intimate and personal narrative within this broader context highlights the universal human experience of waiting and longing irrespective of the surrounding circumstances.
Alberto Nery was a notable figure in the world of tango music, known for his evocative lyrics that often delve deeply into themes of love, longing, and human emotion.