Tango and Romanticism

Romanticism emerged in the late 18th century as a cultural and artistic movement that celebrated the human spirit. It championed emotion, imagination, heroism, and idealism in response to the dehumanizing forces of industrialization, which favored mechanization and efficiency over the complexities of the human condition. At its core, Romanticism sought to reclaim the richness of human experience, the beauty of feeling, and the depth of emotional expression—an influence that has proven both transformative and enduring across literature, art, and culture.

In our postmodern age, where technology, superficiality, and speed often overshadow deeper values, the ideals of Romanticism feel more relevant than ever. Nowhere is this more evident than in tango—a dance rooted in longing, emotion, and human connection. Tango was never intended solely as a form of entertainment. It arose as a deeply expressive language for the yearnings, dreams, and desires that lie at the heart of human experience, embodying the very essence of Romanticism (see Tango Is the Search for a Dream).

Yet today, critics often point out that some tango performances have veered toward spectacle—featuring gymnastics or acrobatics that, while impressive in physicality, miss the soul of the dance. These performances prioritize external display over internal emotion. True tango is not about dazzling tricks; it’s about the invisible thread that binds two dancers in connection and intimacy. It evokes the drama of a beautiful romance—two partners navigating challenges together, united in support, trust, and emotional presence. Tango, at its best, is a dance of shared feeling—a Romantic art form that stands in stark contrast to athletic display. Rather than turning outward in pursuit of applause, tango invites dancers to turn inward, drawing on the human spirit, connection, and emotional resonance (see The Conceptual Beauty of Tango).

When stripped of these deeper qualities, tango risks becoming just another sport or show—technically skilled, yet emotionally hollow. In a culture increasingly dominated by games over classics, sport over art, and technology over humanity, there is a danger that tango will lose its soul. Many raised in such an environment are drawn to novelty, speed, and change, often at the expense of substance and timeless beauty.

To safeguard tango’s classic elegance, we must rekindle the Romantic spirit in both our teaching and dancing. This means embracing simplicity and naturalness, valuing elegance over extravagance, and allowing genuine emotion to guide the movement. While trends may come and go, Romanticism remains a timeless expression of our shared humanity. It endures, quietly awaiting rediscovery. And when brought to life through tango, it elevates the dance into a profound and poetic celebration of human connection—resonating deeply across time (see Embracing Elegance).