Nelly

Carlos Gardel, often hailed as the king of tango, brings forth a passionate and heartfelt serenade in his song 'Nelly.' The lyrics are a testament to unrequited love and the deep yearning that accompanies it. Gardel's voice, known for its emotional depth, perfectly complements the lyrical content, making the listener feel the intensity of his emotions. The song is a beautiful blend of longing, admiration, and a touch of melancholy, which are common themes in tango music.

The song begins with Gardel professing his love for Nelly, stating that his life belongs to her alone. He uses vivid imagery, such as writing his love with coal, to emphasize the permanence and intensity of his feelings. The mention of trembling when looking at her mouth and the description of his love as 'ebria' (drunk) and 'loca' (crazy) further highlight the overwhelming nature of his passion. This portrayal of love as an all-consuming force is a recurring theme in Gardel's music.

In the second verse, Gardel expresses a desire to unite his passion, feelings, and love with Nelly's kisses. He uses the metaphor of drinking from the cup of life and the feast of love to convey his longing for a deeper connection. The idea of prolonging this 'orgy' of love and dying satisfied speaks to the intensity and completeness he seeks in this relationship. The final lines, where he imagines confessing to God that their sin was one of love, add a layer of spiritual and moral complexity to the song, suggesting that true love transcends earthly boundaries and judgments.

The song's closing lines continue the theme of longing, with Gardel wishing that Nelly could be his, even if only for a moment. He describes her as a pure rose of fire, a symbol of both beauty and passion. The idea that a single phrase of love could ignite this fire underscores the power of words and emotions in Gardel's world. 'Nelly' is a poignant and evocative piece that captures the essence of tango and the timeless nature of love and desire.