Ladeira da Preguiça

Gilberto Gil's song "Ladeira da Preguiça" is a poetic exploration of nostalgia, reflection, and the passage of time. The title itself, which translates to "The Lazy Hill," sets the tone for a contemplative journey. The repetition of the question "Essa ladeira, que ladeira é essa?" ("This hill, what hill is this?") emphasizes a sense of curiosity and introspection. The hill symbolizes life's journey, filled with moments of laziness and procrastination, as well as the simple joys and wonders of existence.

In the lyrics, Gil reflects on his own laziness, particularly in the context of familial responsibilities. He mentions the reluctance to write to family or send money home, highlighting a common human experience of putting off important tasks. This laziness is juxtaposed with the beauty of the world, described as a "maravilha" (wonder). The song also touches on the innocence of childhood, with references to a girl counting stars and a boy singing songs, evoking a sense of nostalgia for simpler times.

The song further delves into the idea of isolation and escape, mentioning various islands such as "ilha do medo" (island of fear) and "ilha do frade" (island of the friar). These islands serve as metaphors for different states of mind and places of refuge. The mention of "salina das margaridas" (salt marsh of daisies) adds a touch of natural beauty and tranquility. The final lines, "Ela é de hoje, ela é desde quando se amarrava cachorro com linguiça" ("It is from today, it is from when dogs were tied with sausage"), suggest a timeless quality to this laziness, connecting the past with the present in a humorous and nostalgic way.