Construcción

Chico Buarque's 'Construção' is a powerful and moving narrative that tells the story of a construction worker's final day of life. The song's lyrics are a poignant commentary on the dehumanizing effects of urban life and the struggles of the working class. Each verse describes the worker's actions with a sense of finality, as if he is doing everything for the last time, which creates a foreboding atmosphere that culminates in his tragic death.

The song's structure is unique, with each stanza ending with a line that disrupts the flow, symbolizing the abruptness of death and the disruption it causes in the daily routine. The repetition of actions 'as if' they were something else gives a surreal quality to the narrative, suggesting a disconnection between the worker's inner life and his mechanical existence. The imagery of the worker's eyes 'blurred with cement and tears' poignantly captures the physical and emotional toll of his labor.

Chico Buarque is known for his socially conscious music, and 'Construção' is a prime example of his ability to weave complex human emotions into a critique of society. The song's haunting melody and lyrical craftsmanship have made it a classic in Brazilian music, resonating with audiences as a timeless reflection on the human condition within the context of modern society's demands.