Manoblanca

The song 'Manoblanca' by Homero Manzi is a nostalgic ode to the traditional cart drivers of Buenos Aires, known as 'carreros'. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a cart driver, or 'carrerito', as he navigates through the streets of the city, urging his pair of grey horses on with affectionate nicknames like 'Manoblanca' and 'Porteñito'. The mention of the 'chata celeste' with initials painted by hand, and the bronze star on the leather sole, adds a personal and authentic touch to the cart and its driver, highlighting the pride they take in their work and appearance.

The song also touches on the romantic aspect of the cart driver's life, as he looks forward to meeting the gaze of a loved one at the intersection of Avenida Centenera and Tabaré. This detail not only humanizes the cart driver but also connects his laborious day to the promise of love and personal relationships that await him. The repeated lines '¡Bueno! ¡bueno!... ¡Ya salimos!...' convey a sense of accomplishment and relief as the cart driver overcomes challenges, perhaps a steep incline or a difficult part of the journey, with the help of his trusted horses.

Overall, 'Manoblanca' is a tribute to a bygone era and a way of life that was once integral to the city's daily rhythm. Homero Manzi, known for his tango lyrics, captures the essence of the Buenos Aires working class and their simple yet profound connections to their work, their city, and their loved ones. The song is a cultural artifact that preserves the memory of the cart drivers and their role in the urban landscape of Buenos Aires.