Marcha Do Centenário

Amália Rodrigues, often hailed as the 'Queen of Fado,' brings the spirit of Lisbon to life in her song 'Marcha Do Centenário.' The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the city, floating in a sea of song and bathed in moonlight. The imagery of pieces of the moon falling from a balloon captures a sense of whimsy and magic, suggesting that Lisbon is a place where dreams and reality intertwine seamlessly.

The song celebrates Lisbon's resilience and joy, urging the city to revel in its own beauty and spirit. The lines 'Deixem Lisboa folgar / Não há mal que me arrefeça' emphasize a carefree attitude, encouraging the city to laugh, sing, and keep its head in the clouds. This reflects a deep-seated cultural pride and a refusal to be weighed down by life's hardships.

Rodrigues also personifies Lisbon as a woman who has grown from a girl into a beautiful, cunning lady. The city is described as being 'pertinho do céu' (close to heaven) and 'baptized in the Sé,' highlighting its historical and spiritual significance. Despite being centuries old, Lisbon is portrayed as eternally youthful, untouched by the ravages of time. The song concludes with a fado, a traditional Portuguese genre known for its melancholic and soulful nature, yet here it is used to underscore Lisbon's perpetual innocence and vitality.

' Marcha Do Centenário' is not just a song; it's a love letter to Lisbon, celebrating its past, present, and future. It captures the essence of a city that is both ancient and forever young, filled with joy, beauty, and an unbreakable spirit.