Un lamento by

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

Story behind the Tango Un lamento

“Un lamento” tells the poignant story of a young woman engulfed in sorrow due to an unrequited love. It paints a vivid picture of heartbreak and betrayal, focusing on the emotional depth of a “percanta” or a lady, who is left heartbroken as she recalls a love that has turned into a painful memory. This Tango captures the essence of unfulfilled affection and the solitude that comes with it, through potent imagery and emotive storytelling.

Symbolism of Un lamento

The lyrics employ poignant symbolism, capturing the essence of longing and betrayal. The “percanta” symbolizes every soul that has faced unrequited love and deceit. The image of a “milonguerita” living in her “cotorrito, chiquitito” denotes a restricted and isolated life, while phrases like “llora con sentimiento” and “el oscuro cabaret” reflect deep sadness and the dark paths one’s fate might lead to when hope diminishes. Key phrases such as “Pobre la milonguerita” and “Porque a su fiel ilusión la ha mordido la traición” emphasize the pity and downfall due to treachery, evoking empathy from the audience.

Un lamento in historic Context

Written in 1953 in Buenos Aires, “Un lamento” emerged during a period when Tango was a powerful cultural force reflecting the emotions and struggles of urban life. The post-war era in Argentina was a time of social change, and Tangos often expressed themes of nostalgic longing and societal challenges. The setting of Buenos Aires, with its bustling but often lonely cityscape, provides the perfect backdrop for such narratives of solitude and unfulfilled dreams.

Graciano De Leone was a noted composer who contributed significantly to the Tango genre. His compositions are known for their emotional depth and cultural resonance, capturing the heart of Argentine society in his music.