Preciso Aprender a Só Ser

Gilberto Gil's song 'Preciso Aprender a Só Ser' delves into the complexities of self-discovery and the emotional struggles that accompany it. The lyrics reflect a deep introspection, where the artist grapples with the overwhelming amount of information and expectations that life throws at us. Gilberto Gil, a prominent figure in Brazilian music, uses his poetic prowess to convey the internal conflict between the heart and the mind, a theme that resonates universally.

The song begins with a contemplation of the myriad things one must learn in life—what to sing, how to walk, where to go, what to say, and whom to love. This enumeration of life's demands highlights the confusion and pressure that can lead to a sense of being lost. Gil's admission of feeling 'sem jeito' (awkward or out of place) and the 'nó no peito' (knot in the chest) that dissolves into hidden tears speaks to the vulnerability and emotional burden that many people experience but often conceal.

As the song progresses, Gilberto Gil acknowledges that the root of these struggles lies within ourselves and our hearts. He suggests that the heart's refusal to follow the mind's lead into suffering is a crucial step in self-preservation. The reference to a 'samba-canção' (a type of Brazilian song) and the need to learn to be alone ('Eu preciso aprender a ser só') transitions into a more profound realization: the importance of simply being ('Eu preciso aprender a só ser'). This shift from solitude to self-acceptance underscores the song's message that true peace comes from within, not from external validation or societal expectations.

In the final lines, Gilberto Gil expresses a desire to disengage from the overwhelming information and expectations, emphasizing the importance of focusing on one's inner self. This poignant conclusion encapsulates the essence of the song—a call to embrace one's true self and find solace in simply being, rather than constantly striving to meet external demands.