Corrientes Y Esmeralda

Celedonio Flores' song 'Corrientes Y Esmeralda' is a vivid homage to a famous intersection in Buenos Aires, capturing the essence of the city's vibrant and sometimes gritty street life. The lyrics paint a picture of the early 20th century, a time when the corner of Corrientes and Esmeralda was a bustling hub of activity. The song opens with references to street toughs and the 'cajetilla,' a term for a dandy or a well-dressed man, who would assert their dominance with a cross punch. This sets the stage for a narrative steeped in the culture of the time, where bravado and street smarts were essential for survival.

The song delves into the various elements that made this corner iconic. It mentions the mix of people and activities, from drinking and gambling to the presence of 'curdelas de grappa' (drunkards) and 'locas de pris' (crazy women). The Odeon theater and its tangos, the French women ('Franchutas papusas') looking for a quick escape, and the ever-watchful police ('el lente que tira el botón') all contribute to the rich tapestry of life at this intersection. The lyrics also touch on the dreams and aspirations of the people who frequented this corner, including the 'milonguita,' a young woman who might have encountered tragedy while carrying her humble bundle of clothes.

Flores' song is not just a snapshot of a place but a tribute to the characters who made it memorable. He references poets like Carlos de la Púa and Contursi, who immortalized the corner in their works, and even the legendary tango singer Carlos Gardel, whose image was a dream for many. The song concludes with a heartfelt promise from the milonguero (tango dancer) to offer his deepest affection and to immortalize the corner in a tango when life reaches a stalemate ('cero a cero'). This promise underscores the enduring significance of Corrientes and Esmeralda in the cultural memory of Buenos Aires.