O Tempo Passa? Não Passa

Carlos Drummond de Andrade's poem "O Tempo Passa? Não Passa" delves into the intricate relationship between time and love. The opening lines question the passage of time, suggesting that within the depths of the heart, time stands still. This timelessness is attributed to the enduring grace of love, which continues to bloom like a song. The poet uses the metaphor of a song to illustrate how love remains vibrant and alive, defying the conventional understanding of time's passage.

As the poem progresses, Drummond emphasizes how love brings people closer, reducing them to a single verse and rhyme. This imagery conveys the unity and harmony that love fosters, transcending the physical constraints of time. The poet dismisses the notion of time being consumed or saved, instead portraying it as entirely enveloped in love. This perspective elevates love to the highest form of existence, where time is merely a vessel for the experience of love.

Drummond further explores the idea that love transcends any measurable concept of time. He asserts that beyond love, nothing else holds significance, and loving is the essence of life. The poem challenges the conventional understanding of time, labeling calendar dates and anniversaries as myths. Instead, it presents the idea that love is a continuous rebirth, an eternal present moment. The concluding lines reinforce the timeless nature of love, suggesting that those who truly love have heard the call of eternity. This profound connection between love and eternity underscores the poem's central theme: love is the ultimate, timeless force that defines our existence.