Un tropezón by Luis Bayón Herrera

Un tropezón is a Tango written by Luis Bayón Herrera and composed by Raúl De los Hoyos.

Story behind the Tango Un tropezón

The lyrics of “Un tropezón” depict a dramatic moment of personal betrayal and emotional distress, framed within a conversation between the protagonist and a police officer. The protagonist pleads with the officer not to cause him shame, emphasizing his decency despite his encounter with a deceitful woman. The central narrative explores themes of love, betrayal, and the struggle to overcome a painful emotional setback, reflecting a moment where the protagonist’s romantic idealism crashes against harsh reality.

Symbolism of Un tropezón

The title “Un tropezón” translates to “A Stumble” in English, symbolizing a minor yet impactful mistake in life’s journey—here, a painful romantic disappointment. Throughout the lyrics, there is significant symbolism in phrases such as “D’entre su barro la saqué un día” (From her mud I lifted her one day), suggesting the protagonist elevated the woman from a lower state to a status of greater respect and love. The reference to the proverb “la cabra al monte tira” (the goat returns to the mountain) and “Un gran otario” (a great fool) sharply paints the protagonist’s realization of his naïveté, contrasting his idealistic love against the woman’s betrayal.

Un tropezón in historic Context

“Un tropezón” was recorded in 1927, a period when Tango music was intertwining with the urban culture of Argentina, particularly Buenos Aires. This era saw Tango evolve from the dance floors of lower-class neighborhoods to a more widespread acceptance in society. In this context, the Tango often captured themes of unrequited love, deception, and social ascent, which are vividly portrayed in this song. Luis Bayón Herrera’s depiction of emotional betrayal through a popular dance form speaks volumes about the societal attitudes towards relationships and personal honor during that time.

Luis Bayón Herrera

Luis Bayón Herrera was an influential figure in Argentine cinema and culture, known for his work as a film director and writer, enriching the artistic landscape of Argentina during the early to mid-20th century.