Tormenta
Enrique Santos Discépolo
The Cry of the Faithful in the Midst of Despair
The song "Tormenta" by Enrique Santos Discépolo is a poignant expression of existential crisis and a search for divine justice in a world perceived as inherently unfair. The lyrics depict a person caught in a metaphorical storm, representing their internal turmoil and the chaotic nature of life. The repeated cries to God throughout the song suggest a deep spiritual struggle, where the individual is questioning the value of living a virtuous life in a world where evil seems to prosper.
The narrator's plea for light 'para seguir' (to continue) indicates a desire for guidance and clarity in a world that feels dark and confusing. The reference to learning from God's hand but finding it useless 'para vivir' (to live) reflects a sense of betrayal and disillusionment with the teachings that were supposed to provide a moral compass. The contrast between the suffering of the honest and the success of the wicked challenges the notion of divine justice and the purpose of maintaining purity and integrity.
The song's climax is a desperate request for proof that evil does not go unpunished, a sign that would restore the narrator's faith. The mention of dying 'con vos' (with you), 'feliz, Señor' (happy, Lord), suggests a willingness to endure suffering and maintain faith if it means ultimately being aligned with the divine. The raw emotion and existential questioning in "Tormenta" resonate with listeners who have grappled with the meaning of suffering and the pursuit of righteousness in an imperfect world.