De Flor Em Flor

Gal Costa's "De Flor Em Flor" is a poetic exploration of love's complexities and its transformative power. The song opens with the imagery of love giving a flower the scent of jasmine, suggesting the enchanting and intoxicating nature of affection. This metaphor extends to the creation of a prison for the sea with sand, legends, and shells, symbolizing how love can both captivate and confine. The interplay between freedom and entrapment is a recurring theme, reflecting the dual nature of romantic relationships.

The lyrics further delve into the idea of love as a performance, with references to an actor, a portrait, and the wilderness. This suggests that love is an intricate play, where each participant assumes a role, and the end of the act is inevitable. The mention of a "prato feito pra cuspir" (a plate made to spit on) introduces a sense of disdain or rejection, hinting at the bitterness that can accompany love's sweetness. The song captures the tension between desire and disillusionment, portraying love as both a blessing and a burden.

In the final verses, love is crowned as a king, where simple will becomes law. This highlights the authoritative and sometimes tyrannical nature of love, which can be both sweet and overwhelming. The phrase "de flor em flor" (from flower to flower) suggests a journey or evolution, indicating that love is not static but constantly changing and growing. Ultimately, the song concludes with the realization that love, in its many forms, has brought the beloved to the singer, emphasizing the personal and transformative impact of this universal emotion.