Construção

Chico Buarque's 'Construção' is a powerful and evocative song that delves into the life and death of a construction worker, serving as a poignant critique of the dehumanizing effects of urban society and the struggles of the working class. The song's narrative is structured around the final day of the protagonist's life, with each verse ending in his tragic death, which disrupts the flow of everyday life, symbolized by the traffic. The repetition of his actions 'as if it were the last time' underscores the preciousness of life's simple moments, which are often overlooked until it's too late.

The lyrics employ a series of metaphors and contrasts to highlight the worker's mechanical existence and the stark reality of his life. Phrases like 'Subiu a construção como se fosse máquina' (He climbed the construction as if he were a machine) and 'Seus olhos embotados de cimento e lágrima' (His eyes dulled by cement and tears) reflect the harshness of his labor and the emotional toll it takes. The song's structure, with its repetitive melody and circular narrative, mirrors the cyclical nature of the worker's life and the inescapability of his socioeconomic position.

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 societal issues. The song's final verses, a litany of ironic 'thanks' to God for the bare minimum conditions of survival, serve as a biting commentary on the exploitation and marginalization of the working class. The song remains a timeless reflection on human dignity and the often invisible struggles of those who labor to build the cities we live in.