Viejo farolito by Roberto Lambertucci

Viejo farolito is a Tango written by Roberto Lambertucci and composed by Pacífico Lambertucci.

Story behind the Tango Viejo farolito

The lyrics of “Viejo farolito” depict a poignant farewell, where the old street lamp of the narrator’s neighborhood serves as the silent witness to his heartfelt departure. The street lamp is portrayed as a sentinel of his love, guarding treasured memories that are deeply engraved in his mind. As the narrator bids goodbye to familiar surroundings, he expresses a profound sense of loss and emotional pain, highlighting the deep connection to his past and the sorrow of leaving it behind.

Symbolism of Viejo farolito

The old street lamp (“Viejo farolito”) symbolizes a beacon of hope and guidance, illuminating the narrator’s path and experiences. It stands as a testament to the love and moments shared in its glow, reflecting the emotional attachment to a place and time. The lamp’s light also represents introspection and the illumination of personal grief, as the narrator reflects on his love and departure. Through its persistent presence, the street lamp is an anchor in the shifting sands of time, holding fast to the memories that the narrator cherishes.

Viejo farolito in historic Context

Written and recorded in Argentina in 1939, “Viejo farolito” emerges in a time of global unrest on the eve of World War II. The sentiments of departure and heartache may subtly reflect the broader societal unease and changes of that period. Argentina, while geographically distant from the epicenters of war, was not immune to the cultural and economic ripples it caused. The tango, a deeply expressive form rooted in Argentine culture, serves as an ideal vessel for conveying complex emotional and social undercurrents during such troubled times.

Roberto Lambertucci

Roberto Lambertucci is celebrated as a lyricist whose works capture the essence of Argentine sentiments, often weaving personal emotions with broader cultural themes.