Galos, Noites e Quintais

Belchior's song 'Galos, Noites e Quintais' is a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the loss of innocence. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a simpler, more joyful past, contrasting it with the present, which is marked by sorrow and hardship. The opening lines describe a time when the singer's eyes were not filled with tears, and his sleep was sweetened by the simple pleasures of life, such as chewing on sugarcane. This imagery evokes a sense of nostalgia for a time when life was less complicated and more fulfilling.

The song continues to explore the theme of lost innocence by describing the singer's youthful adventures, where he felt free and unburdened, much like a river or a flock of sparrows. The mention of 'galos, noites e quintais' (roosters, nights, and backyards) symbolizes a time of rural simplicity and natural beauty. However, this idyllic past is disrupted by the 'tempo negro' (dark time), which brings inevitable suffering and change. The 'mal que a força sempre faz' (the harm that force always does) suggests a loss of freedom and the imposition of external hardships.

Despite the melancholy tone, the song ends on a note of resilience. The singer acknowledges that he is not happy, but he is not silent either. The act of singing becomes a form of resistance and a way to cope with the pain. This resilience is a testament to the human spirit's ability to endure and find expression even in the face of adversity. Belchior's lyrical style, rich with metaphors and cultural references, captures the essence of a generation grappling with change and loss, yet finding strength in their voice and memories.