É sempre assim

Arlindo Cruz's song 'É sempre assim' (It's Always Like This) delves into the emotional rollercoaster of a tumultuous relationship. The lyrics speak to the inconsistency and confusion that often accompany love, especially when one's feelings are not reciprocated in a stable manner. The song's narrator describes a partner who oscillates between affection and neglect, creating a sense of longing and uncertainty. The phrase 'Saudade de mim' (Missing me) suggests a complex dynamic where the partner misses the narrator only when they are not around, highlighting the push-and-pull nature of their connection.

The song also touches on the theme of emotional dependence and the struggle to find balance in a relationship that seems one-sided. The narrator feels both desired and rejected, a contradiction that leads to an emotional limbo. The lyrics 'Me deseja, me procura toda hora' (You desire me, you look for me all the time) versus 'Me despreza, me entristece, o teu desprezo' (You scorn me, you sadden me, your scorn) illustrate this painful duality. The narrator's plea for consistency and a true connection reflects a deep yearning for a stable and reciprocated love.

Ultimately, the song expresses a desire for resolution and a definitive place in the partner's heart. The closing lines 'É hora de toda tristeza se acabar / Teu coração é o meu lugar, meu lugar' (It's time for all sadness to end / Your heart is my place, my place) convey a hopeful note, suggesting that despite the ups and downs, the narrator holds onto the hope of a love that is both fulfilling and secure. Arlindo Cruz, known for his samba and pagode music, often explores themes of love, longing, and the complexities of human relationships in his songs, and 'É sempre assim' is a poignant example of his lyrical depth.