Coqueiro Verde

Erasmo Carlos' song 'Coqueiro Verde' captures the essence of waiting for someone who may never come. The lyrics describe a scene where the protagonist waits under a green coconut tree for a person named Narinha, who disappointingly does not show up. The repetition of this scenario suggests a pattern of waiting and the frustration that comes with it. The act of smoking 'um cigarro e meio' (one and a half cigarettes) symbolizes the passage of time and the growing impatience.

The reference to Leila Diniz, a famous Brazilian actress known for her progressive views on women and society, adds a cultural layer to the song. By mentioning her saying that 'Homem tem que ser durão' (A man has to be tough), the song reflects on the traditional expectations of masculinity, where showing vulnerability or despair is often discouraged. However, the protagonist's decision to leave if Narinha doesn't arrive soon challenges this notion, indicating a limit to how much waiting and toughness is reasonable.

The chorus, where the protagonist decides to leave and read his 'pasquim' (a colloquial term for a newspaper or magazine), shows a shift from passive waiting to taking action. It also introduces a bit of irony; if Narinha arrives and doesn't find him, she will have to chase after him, reversing the roles. This twist adds a playful element to the song, suggesting that there's a point where one must move on, even if it means the other person might end up pursuing them instead.