Professora
Fernando Mendes
A Lesson in Love: The Yearning of a Student's Heart
Fernando Mendes' song "Professora" paints a poignant picture of a student's infatuation with his teacher, capturing the innocence and intensity of youthful admiration. The lyrics describe the student's emotional turmoil as he waits eagerly in the schoolyard, longing for the moment when he can catch a glimpse of his beloved teacher. This setting, a common backdrop for many, evokes a sense of nostalgia and the universal experience of a first crush.
The song is rich with metaphors, particularly in the way the student views his teacher. She is not just an educator but a beacon of beauty and wisdom, someone who holds the key to his understanding of life. The imagery of the teacher writing on a "quadro escuro" (dark board) symbolizes the lessons she imparts, which the student hopes to carry into the future. Yet, amidst these lessons, he yearns for her to notice the "quadro de amor" (picture of love) he tries to express, highlighting the unspoken emotions that often accompany such infatuations.
Mendes' lyrics also delve into the theme of guidance and self-discovery. The student pleads for the teacher to "me ensina essa vida da forma mais certa" (teach me this life in the right way), suggesting a desire for more than just academic knowledge. He seeks emotional and personal growth, hoping that through her guidance, he can find his own path. This reflects a deeper longing for connection and understanding, a sentiment that resonates with anyone who has ever looked up to a mentor or role model.