Como Nossos Pais

The song 'Como Nossos Pais' by Elis Regina is a poignant reflection on the generational cycles and the struggle for change. The lyrics express a desire to communicate personal experiences and the realization that despite efforts to live differently, there is a continuity with the past. The song begins with a personal address, where the speaker wants to share their life rather than learned lessons. This sets a tone of authenticity and personal revelation.

The chorus, 'Ainda somos os mesmos e vivemos como os nossos pais' (We are still the same and live like our parents), captures the essence of the song. It suggests that despite the desire for progress and change, there is an inevitable resemblance to the previous generation. The song acknowledges the good in love and life but warns of the dangers and challenges that remain, indicating a struggle between idealism and reality. The reference to idols and the past critiques the tendency to cling to what is familiar and the resistance to embrace the new.

Elis Regina delivers this message with a blend of hope and melancholy. The song, released during a period of political repression in Brazil, also reflects the yearning for freedom and the frustration with the status quo. It resonates with listeners who feel caught between the desire for change and the weight of tradition. 'Como Nossos Pais' is not just a personal statement but a cultural commentary on the inertia of social and personal transformation.