Refrão de Bolero

The song 'Refrão de Bolero' by Engenheiros do Hawaii, a Brazilian rock band known for their poetic lyrics and social criticism, delves into themes of regret, longing, and the complexity of human emotions. The lyrics tell the story of someone who has spoken without thinking and is now dealing with the consequences of their words, which are described as a 'crime without forgiveness.' The repetition of this admission of regret suggests a deep rumination and self-reproach.

The metaphor of the heart in hand like the refrain of a bolero, a slow-tempo Latin music genre, emphasizes the raw and exposed feelings of the speaker. Boleros are often associated with deep emotion and passion, which parallels the intensity of the speaker's remorse. The mention of a cheap wine, a cigarette in the ashtray, and a drunken face in the mirror paints a scene of someone trying to drown their sorrows and escape their guilt, only to find that it follows them relentlessly.

Ana, the subject of the song, is depicted as an enigmatic figure whose lips are likened to labyrinths and whose gaze is distant and deceiving. The speaker is drawn to Ana, following her 'every day of the week,' which suggests an obsession or unrequited love. The song captures the torment of desire mixed with the pain of knowing that the object of affection may be unattainable or misleading. The use of the name 'Ana' personalizes the experience, making the song resonate with anyone who has felt the sting of regret and the pull of an elusive love.