El motivo (Pobre paica)

Pascual Contursi's song "El motivo (Pobre paica)" paints a poignant picture of a woman who was once the queen of the tango scene but has now fallen into hard times. The lyrics tell the story of a woman who was once the center of attention, dazzling everyone with her presence and charm during the vibrant nights of tango. She was admired and desired, a true 'papa milonguera'—a term that refers to a woman who was highly skilled and popular in the tango dance halls. However, her current state is a stark contrast to her former glory. She is now impoverished, unable to afford even basic necessities like shoes and dresses, and is suffering from illness. The friends and admirers who once surrounded her have abandoned her, leaving her to face her hardships alone.

The song delves deep into the emotional and physical decline of this once-celebrated woman. Her eyes, which once shone brightly, have lost their luster, and her face has paled, reflecting her deteriorating health. She is acutely aware of her situation, feeling the pain and sorrow of being unloved and forgotten. The lyrics evoke a sense of empathy and sadness for her plight, highlighting the transient nature of beauty and fame. The woman, who once had the power to captivate with just a glance, now finds herself without anyone to offer her comfort or affection.

The final verse of the song brings a sense of nostalgia and melancholy. When she hears the notes of a tango, she is reminded of her past filled with pleasures and love. However, these memories only serve to deepen her sorrow, as they contrast sharply with her present reality of loneliness and despair. The 'florcita de fango'—a little flower of the mud—symbolizes her fall from grace, from a life of vibrancy and admiration to one of hardship and neglect. Contursi's lyrics masterfully capture the tragic arc of her life, making "El motivo (Pobre paica)" a touching and evocative piece that resonates with themes of lost glory, the fleeting nature of beauty, and the harsh realities of life.