Divino Maravilhoso

Gal Costa's song 'Divino Maravilhoso' is a powerful anthem that captures the essence of the Brazilian Tropicália movement, a cultural and musical revolution in the late 1960s. The lyrics, written by Caetano Veloso and Gilberto Gil, reflect a time of political turmoil and social upheaval in Brazil. The song's title, which translates to 'Divine Wonderful,' sets the tone for a message that juxtaposes the beauty and danger of life, urging listeners to remain vigilant and resilient.

The repeated call to 'atenção' (attention) throughout the song serves as a wake-up call to the audience. It emphasizes the need to be aware of one's surroundings, both the joys and the perils. The lyrics highlight the importance of having 'firm eyes' to navigate through the 'Sun' and 'darkness,' symbolizing the highs and lows of life. This duality is further explored in the refrain, where everything is described as both 'dangerous' and 'divine wonderful,' suggesting that life's challenges and beauties are intertwined.

The refrain, 'É preciso estar atento e forte, não temos tempo de temer a morte' (We must be attentive and strong, we don't have time to fear death), is a rallying cry for courage and strength. It reflects the urgency of the times, encouraging people to face adversity head-on without succumbing to fear. The song also touches on the importance of being aware of social and political issues, as seen in lines like 'atenção para o sangue sobre o chão' (attention to the blood on the ground), which likely alludes to the violence and oppression of the era.

'Gal Costa's 'Divino Maravilhoso' is more than just a song; it's a call to action and a reminder of the resilience needed to navigate the complexities of life. Its message remains relevant today, urging us to stay vigilant, strong, and unafraid in the face of life's inevitable challenges.