Primero Yo

Carlos Gardel's song 'Primero Yo' is a poignant reflection on a past relationship, filled with a mix of bitterness, regret, and a touch of pride. The lyrics tell the story of a man who reminisces about a woman who once was a significant part of his life. He recalls how he tried to educate and refine her, only to see her leave and ascend to a life of luxury and superficiality, while he remained stuck in his own struggles.

The song opens with a vivid description of the woman's arrogance and superficial charm, likening her to a billboard full of empty promises. Gardel's use of metaphors, such as 'inflada de despotismo' (inflated with despotism) and 'lirismo de cartel' (billboard lyricism), paints a picture of someone who has become hollow despite outward appearances. The narrator's frustration is palpable as he reflects on the time and effort he invested in her education, only to realize it was in vain due to her stubbornness.

As the song progresses, the narrator contrasts their divergent paths. The woman has found success and pleasure, symbolized by her 'Renault' and her association with wealthy men ('bacanes dichosos'), while he feels abandoned and left behind. Despite this, he asserts his importance in her life, claiming that no matter how much she enjoys her new life, he was her first love and remains a significant figure in her past. This declaration, 'primero yo' (first me), underscores a sense of pride and a lingering emotional connection that he believes she cannot erase.

'Primero Yo' is a rich tapestry of emotions, capturing the complexities of love, loss, and the human desire for recognition and validation. Gardel's evocative lyrics and the melancholic tone of the song resonate deeply, making it a timeless piece that speaks to the universal experience of heartache and the enduring impact of past relationships.