Tristeza marina by

Tristeza marina is a Tango written by and composed by José Dames.

Story behind the Tango Tristeza marina

“Tristeza marina” tells the poignant story of a love lost to the sea, a recurrent theme in maritime-centric communities. The lyrics capture a dialogue between the narrator and a lover named Margó, who demands a choice between her and the sea. The dramatic breakup is encapsulated in the repeated lines where Margó offers this ultimatum, and the narrator’s heart-wrenching decision to choose the sea over love, thereby losing Margó forever. The personal conflict serves as a broader metaphor for choosing between passion and personal connections.

Symbolism of Tristeza marina

The sea is a powerful symbol throughout the song, representing freedom, destiny, and isolation. This duality is highlighted in the poignant repetition of the word “Mar” (sea), emphasizing the deep bond and simultaneous melancholy it brings. The “boina azul” (blue beret) and “una cruz” (a cross) that Margó wears symbolize her identity and perhaps her innocent hope or burden of sacrifice. The “cristal de su voz se quebró” (the crystal of her voice broke) conveys a fragile moment of heartbreak, enhancing the intensity of the emotional rift.

Tristeza marina in historic Context

Written and set in 1943 Buenos Aires, Argentina, “Tristeza marina” emerges during a time when tango was a poignant expression of urban loneliness and the immigrant experience. Buenos Aires, a port city with a rich maritime history, frames the song’s setting and amplifies the theme of separation associated with seafaring. This era, marked by economic hardships and the impacts of World War II, reflects in the somber tones of longing and loss within the song.

was an influential figure in the development of tango music and lyrics, carving out a distinct narrative style that resonated with the cultural zeitgeist of mid-20th century Argentina.