Cantares de Andarilho

José Afonso's 'Cantares de Andarilho' is a poetic and mystical exploration of a wanderer's journey through a world filled with supernatural elements and personal trials. The song's lyrics are rich with imagery and metaphors that paint a vivid picture of the protagonist's encounters with witches, nature, and the devil. Afonso, a renowned Portuguese singer and songwriter, is known for his profound and often politically charged lyrics, and this song is no exception, though it leans more towards the mystical and existential.

The song begins with the wanderer recounting his interactions with witches, to whom he gave his innocence but received nothing in return. This could symbolize a loss of purity or naivety in exchange for wisdom or experience that ultimately proved fruitless. The wanderer's journey takes him through various landscapes, each with its own symbolic flora, such as 'giesta' (broom), 'lírio maninho' (wild lily), and 'erva cidreira' (lemon balm). These plants could represent different stages or aspects of life, each contributing to the wanderer's growth and understanding.

As the song progresses, the wanderer reveals that he has been both dead and alive, suggesting a metaphorical death and rebirth, possibly through the trials he has faced. His admission of selling his soul to the devil adds a layer of complexity, hinting at a desperate search for meaning or power. The final verses describe the wanderer's encounters with various creatures and his ultimate division between two women, a blonde and a brunette, symbolizing a split in his identity or desires. This duality reflects the internal conflict and the multifaceted nature of human experience.

José Afonso's 'Cantares de Andarilho' is a rich tapestry of metaphors and symbols that invites listeners to reflect on their own journeys and the choices they make. The song's mystical elements and existential themes resonate deeply, making it a timeless piece of art that continues to captivate audiences.