Yo soy de Parque Patricios by Carlos Lucero

Yo soy de Parque Patricios is a Tango written by Carlos Lucero and composed by Víctor Felice.

Story behind the Tango Yo soy de Parque Patricios

“Yo soy de Parque Patricios” is a nostalgic recollection of the author’s youth in the Parque Patricios neighborhood of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Lucero’s lyrics vividly paint the simplicity and the communal feel of his old neighborhood. The lyrics express a deep connection to the place of his upbringing, characterized by its modest streets, musical nights, and the quiet beauty of everyday life during that era. Through his words, we learn about his emotional attachment and sense of belonging to Parque Patricios, depicting it not just as a geographical location but as a cornerstone of his identity.

Symbolism of Yo soy de Parque Patricios

The lyrics are rich in symbolism that invokes a sense of time and tradition. The “viejas rejas, trenzas negras” symbolize the old-fashioned and familiar elements of his neighborhood, suggesting sentiments of security and continuity. Meanwhile, phases such as “Farol, chata, luna llena” beautifully evoke the night scenes that illuminate the streets with different shades, reflecting the varied yet simplistic life lived there. The recurring image of street cars “con sus chatas” and the nostalgic reference to “organitos en sus tardes,” a term often used for street organs, resonate with the deep rooted culture and everyday life of the community he grew up in.

Yo soy de Parque Patricios in historic Context

Recorded in 1944, amid the consequences of WWII and evolving social dynamics in Argentina, “Yo soy de Parque Patricios” reflects a personal aversion to the changes witnessed over time and a longing for the “old times.” The transformation of the neighborhood, with “caras nuevas” and the physical aging of the speaker, signifies the broader societal shifts. The specific mention of Parque Patricios, with its historical ties to the working class and its significance during Argentina’s industrial growth, roots the song deeply in the consciousness of Buenos Aires’ evolving landscape. This Tango serves as a homage to the disappearing old ways and offers a lament for the irrevocable passage of time.

Carlos Lucero

Carlos Lucero was an influential Tango lyricist known for his emotionally resonant and vividly descriptive compositions, capturing the essence of Argentine culture and life.