Y a mi qué by Cátulo Castillo

Y a mi qué is a Tango written by Cátulo Castillo and composed by Aníbal Troilo.

Story behind the Tango Y a mi qué

“Y a mi qué” translates to “And what about me?” or “So what?” in English, capturing a sense of apathy or resilience in the face of life’s adversities. The lyrics present a stark depiction of a life battered by hardships, as the protagonist interacts with the world around him, which is metaphorically “upside down” and oppressive. This work poetically explores themes of disillusionment and existential defiance.

Symbolism of Y a mi qué

The lyrics use everyday elements like wind, walls, and coffee to symbolize broader life experiences and societal conditions. The line “Si el vento es un suspiro y el día tres ya se piantó de yiro y queda el mes,” uses the disappearing days to describe fleeting time and enduring hardships, with the wind as a sigh emphasizing resignation. Furthermore, the “fuego de la fragua” which now reduces life to mere ashes speaks to how personal and societal fires have burnt out, leaving a sense of loss and emptiness.

Y a mi qué in historic Context

Written during the mid-1960s in Argentina, a period marked by political instability and social upheaval, “Y a mi qué” reflects a common sentiment of the time. The economic challenges and political strife likely influenced Castillo’s portrayal of struggle and disillusionment. The resignation reflected in the phrase “Y a mi qué” ties back to the societal disposition towards the numerous crises that would have been affecting daily life in Argentina during this era.

Cátulo Castillo

Cátulo Castillo was a significant figure in the world of Argentine tango, known for his deep, reflective lyrics and collaborations with leading musicians like Aníbal Troilo.