Oração Ao Tempo

Caetano Veloso's 'Oração Ao Tempo' (Prayer to Time) is a poetic homage to the concept of time, personified as a deity with whom the singer-songwriter negotiates and reflects upon life's journey. The lyrics are a blend of reverence, plea, and philosophical musing, set against the backdrop of Veloso's signature melodic style that often incorporates elements of Brazilian music, such as bossa nova and tropicalia.

The song opens with a comparison of time's beauty to that of the singer's child, immediately establishing a personal and affectionate tone. Veloso addresses time as a 'compositor de destinos' (composer of destinies), acknowledging its power over the rhythms of life. The repetition of the word 'tempo' (time) throughout the song serves as a mantra, emphasizing the omnipresence and importance of time in our existence. The request made to time is for a 'prazer legítimo' (legitimate pleasure) and 'movimento preciso' (precise movement), suggesting a desire for meaningful experiences and the right timing in life's events.

The latter part of the song delves into the transient nature of human life and the hope for a connection beyond the physical realm. Veloso expresses a wish to leave a positive legacy ('eu espalhe benefícios') and contemplates the eventual separation from time's cycle. The song closes on a note of optimism, with the belief in the possibility of reuniting on a different level of connection, perhaps hinting at a spiritual or metaphysical bond. 'Oração Ao Tempo' is a lyrical meditation on the passage of time, the human condition, and the search for meaning within the temporal confines of our lives.