Yerba amarga by Benjamín Tagle Lara

Yerba amarga is a Tango written by Benjamín Tagle Lara and composed by Antonio Rodio.

Story behind the Tango Yerba amarga

“Yerba amarga” translated as “Bitter Herb” in English, poetically embodies the story of a man disowned by his community for betraying his own values and the codes of honor prevalent in his local culture. The narrator describes the protagonist’s journey back to his neighborhood where he was once respected yet is now held in contempt for abandoning his courageous ways and engaging in treacherous behavior. A particular focus is on an event where the protagonist, through deceit and betrayal, orchestrates a deadly conflict over a woman, leading to further disgrace.

Symbolism of Yerba amarga

The term “Yerba amarga,” directly translating to “bitter herb,” symbolizes the harsh and bitter consequences of one’s actions. In this tango, it metaphorically represents the taste of guilt and betrayal lingering in the protagonist’s life. It also reflects the bitter reality he faces upon returning to his neighborhood. The repeated phrase highlights the emotional and moral bitterness stemming from his actions—betrayal and lack of integrity, which once discovered, cannot be sweetened or undone.

Yerba amarga in Historic Context

Composed in 1931 in Argentina, “Yerba amarga” emerges during a period when the tango genre often explored themes of love, betrayal, and social honor, mirroring the societal values and struggles of the time. During this era, local neighborhoods in Buenos Aires, where tango was thriving, were tightly-knit communities that valued loyalty and bravery. The narrative of betrayal and lost honor in the lyrics reflects the communal ethos of the time, where personal actions were closely tied to communal identity and respect.

Benjamín Tagle Lara

Benjamín Tagle Lara was an influential figure in the tango scene, known for his poignant and often morally introspective lyrics.