Reproche

Carlos Gardel's song "Reproche" is a poignant exploration of the tango's evolution and its impact on society. The lyrics reflect a deep sense of nostalgia and betrayal, as Gardel addresses the tango itself, personifying it as a once-honorable entity that has succumbed to the allure of luxury and decadence. The song opens with a lament for the tango's past, referencing the neighborhood of Caferata, a place known for its rough and tumble character. Gardel acknowledges the tango's origins in the lower-class barrios and its subsequent seduction by opulence, leading to a loss of respect among the 'malevos' or tough guys who once revered it.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the tango's role in the lives of the people from the underworld, where it served as a backdrop for both violent confrontations and tender moments. Gardel reminisces about the tango's influence on the 'guapos' or brave men who danced to its rhythm and the haunting scenes of knife fights in the shadows. The music, once a comforting lullaby for the children of criminals, now stands accused of betraying its roots. The song's melancholic tone is further emphasized by the imagery of a tear falling from a young woman's eye during a milonga, symbolizing the emotional depth and personal connections forged through the tango.

As the song progresses, Gardel's reproach becomes more direct, accusing the tango of abandoning its origins and playing a deceitful game with fate. The tango is likened to a 'mina abacanada,' a woman who has adopted a sophisticated facade, betraying her humble beginnings. Gardel's lyrics express a deep sense of loss and disillusionment, as he reflects on the damage caused by the tango's transformation. The final verses underscore the irreversible harm inflicted on the 'pobres mujercitas' or poor women, who were swept up in the tango's nights of champagne and excess. Gardel's closing lines suggest that no amount of repentance can undo the damage, highlighting the profound impact of cultural shifts on individual lives and communities.