Un lamento by Eugenio Cardenas

Un lamento is a Tango written by Eugenio Cardenas and composed by Graciano De Leone.

Story behind the Tango Un lamento

The lyrics of “Un lamento” tell the sorrowful tale of a young woman, deeply troubled and continuously weeping over an impossible love that her heart cherishes. The narrative gravitates around her emotional suffering and solitude following deception by someone she loved and trusted. This man, who once promised affection, turned cruel, forsaking her after exploiting her naivety and commitment. The essence of betrayal and its aftermath shapes the core of these poignant verses, uncovering the emotional turmoil and relentless heartbreak of the forsaken lover.

Symbolism of Un lamento

The tango employs vivid symbolism and expressive language to deepen the emotional impact of the woman’s plight. Phrases like “sin que nadie la consuele ni la vele,” suggesting absolute loneliness without anyone to console or watch over her, evoke profound isolation and despair. “Milonguerita” and “Chiquitita”, colloquial terms for the young woman, emphasize vulnerability and endearment, heightening the emotional connection with the listener. The recurring motif of singing about a “lamento” or lament conveys the incessant grief that envelops her existence, further symbolized by the “oscuro cabaret,” which reflects a dark, murky future in an undesirable world.

Un lamento in historic Context

“Un lamento” was recorded in 1942, during a time when Argentina was undergoing significant social and economic changes. The world was engulfed in the throes of World War II, although Argentina remained officially neutral until the later stages. This period was marked by internal conflict and the onset of an era that would eventually lead to populist politics. The themes of love, betrayal, and social commentary in the song would resonate deeply with an audience coping with uncertainty and change, mirroring the broader societal feelings of disillusionment and the search for identity in a rapidly evolving society.

Eugenio Cardenas

Eugenio Cardenas was a prolific lyricist in Argentine tango, known for his evocative compositions and deep understanding of human emotions and social undercurrents.