Desdichas

Pascual Contursi's song 'Desdichas' delves into the hidden sorrows of a milonguera, a woman who dances the milonga, often in the context of a cabaret. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman who, despite her outward appearance of joy and laughter, harbors deep sadness and a broken soul. The contrast between her external facade and internal turmoil is stark, highlighting the often unseen emotional struggles of those who entertain others for a living.

The song's narrative suggests that the milonguera's laughter and dancing are not genuine expressions of happiness but rather forced actions to maintain her livelihood. The line 'que no baila de alegría y se ríe sin querer' (she doesn't dance out of joy and laughs unwillingly) underscores this dichotomy. Her role in the cabaret is a performance, a mask she wears to hide her true feelings and to avoid being dismissed by her employer, as indicated by the warning 'porque mira el encargado y te puede echar' (because the manager is watching and could fire you).

Moreover, the song touches on the theme of lost love and the lingering pain of past relationships. The milonguera is depicted as someone who, in moments of solitude, reminisces about her past sorrows and the end of a passionate love affair. The vision of her child ('la visión de su pebete') provides her with some solace amidst her suffering, suggesting that her maternal love is a source of comfort and strength. This adds a layer of complexity to her character, portraying her not just as a performer but as a mother and a person with a rich emotional life.

'Bailá, bailá, milonguera' serves as a poignant refrain, urging the milonguera to keep dancing despite her pain, reflecting a broader commentary on societal expectations and the often harsh realities faced by women in such roles. Contursi's lyrics offer a compassionate glimpse into the life of a milonguera, inviting listeners to look beyond the surface and recognize the humanity and struggles of those who entertain us.