Mea ning
of Ta ngo
The Melancholic Elegance
When I first discovered tango five years ago, it was a completely foreign concept to me. Little did I know that this dance would become a profound connection between my husband and me. From the moment we met in university, dancing has always been a part of our relationship. However, as the demands of work took over, we forgot to pause and listen to the music, we stopped dancing, and eventually, we stopped smiling and laughing.
We lost touch with the joy it brought us.
We lost in life!
But then, we had an awakening. Realizing the void that had been created, we dug up my old dancing shoes, hidden away in the depths of our closet, and made our way back to dancing. It was there that we found solace, a place where we felt at ease. I knew deep down that everything would be alright as long as I had my dancing shoes on.
“I couldn’t quite gr
a sp why people were so obsessed with this da nce.”
We attempted to rekindle our love for ballroom, Latin, and swing, dances that we had enjoyed in the past. However, this time around, they didn’t feel right this time.
Maybe it’s time for something new.
It was my husband who suggested trying Argentine tango, a dance we had never explored before. As former ballroom dancers, we were accustomed to a more structured and formal style of partner dancing. Tango, on the other hand, seemed mysterious and unfamiliar.
Argentine tango possesses an improvisational and organic quality that sets it apart. It places great emphasis on the connection between partners, allowing for a greater sense of freedom and interpretation. At first, it seemed overwhelming and complex to me. I couldn’t quite grasp why people were so obsessed with this dance. And so, driven by curiosity, we embarked on a mission to uncover the true meaning of tango.
What are other people tango?
Tango is often associated with romance and seduction, as depicted in countless YouTube videos showcasing stage tango or tango fantasia. These performances often incorporate acrobatic elements, such as lifts, jumps, flips, and kicks. With dancers wearing form-fitting attire that accentuates their bodies, the use of high heels and flowing skirts adds a touch of sexuality.
However, the origins of tango are far simpler. Born on the streets of Buenos Aires, tango is a passionate and sensual dance. Renowned for its intricate footwork and intense connection between partners, it has been subject to various interpretations throughout history.
While it undeniably encompasses these elements, it is crucial to recognize that tango is more than just a dance of passion. It is a cultural symbol that reflects the history, emotions, and struggles of the people.
What is my tango?
For me, tango is a dance that embodies a unique blend of passion and longing. It exudes a melancholic elegance that resonates with individuals from all walks of life. Through its music and movements, tango captures the very essence of human emotions, telling stories of love, loss, and the bitter-sweetness of existence.
Originating in the late 19th century within the working-class neighborhoods of Buenos Aires, tango brought together immigrants from diverse backgrounds. It became a means of expression for marginalized communities, reflecting their struggles, joys, and aspirations. Tango became a vehicle for individuals to explore and express their own emotional landscapes.
“The story of struggles,
sepa ra tion,a nd
estra ngement”
The story of struggles, separation, and estrangement is happening everywhere and to everyone. You and I know these feelings very well. These are the feelings we share in common. People extend their hands towards one another, seeking consolation and understanding. And in the intricate dance of life, we find our refuge in the passionate embrace of tango.
Through tango, we learn the importance of connection, trust, resilience, and embracing vulnerability. Its intricate steps and emotional depth encourage us to step out of our comfort zones, communicate effectively, and adapt to unforeseen circumstances.
As we continue on our journey to uncover the meaning of tango, we realize that the more we discover, the less we truly know. Tango transcends mere dance; it is a reflection of the human experience. It is a lifelong quest to find what tango means to each individual.
What is your tango?
by Sirin Angasinha
published January 27, 2004