Así es el tango

Homero Manzi's song 'Así es el tango' is a heartfelt ode to the essence of tango, capturing the spirit and culture of Buenos Aires. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the city's neighborhoods, where the tango is not just a dance or a genre of music but a way of life. Manzi describes tango as a blend of joy and sorrow, a reflection of the city's history and its people's emotions. The song speaks to those who may not understand tango, urging them to listen and feel the truth that the streets and neighborhoods bear witness to.

The song's imagery is rich with cultural references, such as the 'patota procaz' (insolent gang) and the 'buzón rojo de mala intención' (red mailbox with bad intentions), which evoke the gritty, everyday life of Buenos Aires. Manzi also touches on the universal themes of love and heartbreak, describing the 'muchacho que abombao de amor' (young man dazed by love) who is left heartbroken. The tango, in this context, becomes a medium through which these emotions are expressed and shared.

Manzi's lyrics also highlight the duality of tango, portraying it as both a source of nostalgia and a reflection of contemporary life. He speaks of the 'tristeza de arrabal' (sadness of the outskirts) and the 'rencor de horario y de jornal' (resentment of schedules and wages), capturing the struggles of the working class. Yet, there is also a sense of resilience and pride, as the tango embodies the 'mosaico sentimental' (sentimental mosaic) of the city. The song concludes by emphasizing the multifaceted nature of tango, from its passionate dance steps to the mournful strains of the bandoneón, encapsulating the complex emotions and stories of Buenos Aires.