Vuelves by Virgilio San Clemente

Vuelves is a Tango written by Virgilio San Clemente and composed by Maruja Pacheco Huergo.

Story behind the Tango Vuelves

“Vuelves” translates to “You Return” or “You Come Back” in English, encapsulating a deep longing and the joy of a beloved’s return. The repetitive invocation in the lyrics, “Vuelve, alma. Vuelve, vida. Vuelve…”, which means “Return, soul. Return, life. Return…”, emphasizes a plea for the rejuvenation of the speaker’s spirit and life. The song reflects a personal and emotional revival through the return of a significant other, symbolizing renewed hope and life.

Symbolism of Vuelves

The symbolism in “Vuelves” is rich and evocative, playing deeply on sensory and emotional levels. Phrases like “Como un eco de los días, En que todo florecía” (“Like an echo of the days when everything bloomed”) use nature’s imagery to symbolize happier, past times. These lines contrast sharply with “Hoy que todo aquel pasado, Fue una noche de silencio En mis párpados cansados” which translates as “Today all that past was a night of silence On my tired eyelids”, highlighting a period of sadness and exhaustion that demands renewal. The song keenly captures this interplay between past joy and present sorrow through its emotive language.

Vuelves in historic Context

Recorded in 1939 in Argentina, “Vuelves” was written during a complex time historically. The world was on the brink of World War II, a period marked by uncertainty and turmoil globally. Argentina itself was undergoing significant political and social changes. This context is crucial as it imbues the song with a deeper layer of yearning for return – not just of a loved person but perhaps a return to peaceful, more stable times. The melancholy and weariness expressed may also mirror the national sentiment of the era.

Virgilio San Clemente

Virgilio San Clemente was an Argentine lyricist known for his contributions to the genre of tango, capturing the spirit and emotions of his time through his poignant lyrics.