A Felicidade

In 'A Felicidade,' Gal Costa explores the ephemeral nature of happiness and the enduring presence of sadness. The song opens with a poignant contrast: 'Tristeza não tem fim, Felicidade sim' (Sadness has no end, Happiness does). This sets the tone for a meditation on how joy is transient, much like a feather carried by the wind or a dewdrop on a flower petal. These metaphors illustrate the delicate and fleeting quality of happiness, emphasizing its dependence on external factors, such as the wind or the morning dew.

The song also delves into the socio-economic realities of the poor, likening their happiness to the fleeting joy of Carnival. This annual celebration, filled with costumes and revelry, offers a brief escape from the hardships of daily life. However, this joy is short-lived, ending abruptly on Ash Wednesday. This metaphor underscores the idea that for many, happiness is a temporary illusion, a brief respite from an otherwise challenging existence.

In the latter part of the song, the focus shifts to a more personal and intimate form of happiness. The singer finds joy in the eyes of their beloved, describing it as a dream that must be nurtured gently. The plea to 'Falem baixo, por favor' (Speak softly, please) suggests a desire to protect this fragile happiness, hoping it will awaken as bright and loving as the morning. This intimate portrayal contrasts with the earlier societal perspective, offering a more nuanced view of happiness as both a fleeting and deeply personal experience.