Jumento Celestino

The song "Jumento Celestino" by Mamonas Assassinas is a humorous narrative that tells the story of a man from Bahia who migrates to São Paulo on the back of a donkey, seeking a better life. The lyrics are a playful and exaggerated account of the protagonist's journey and the challenges he faces upon arrival in the big city. Mamonas Assassinas, known for their comedic and satirical music, use this song to poke fun at the experience of internal migration in Brazil, highlighting the cultural shock and the struggles of adapting to a new environment.

The protagonist describes his hard life as a farm laborer in Bahia and his decision to move to São Paulo, a common path for many seeking opportunities in Brazil's urban centers. The journey on the donkey, named Celestino, is filled with humorous incidents, including the donkey passing gas and the man developing calluses. Upon reaching São Paulo, the man tries to upgrade his donkey to fit in with the city life, but an accident involving a mule leads to a chaotic scene, ending with the loss of his donkey and the man being left with debt.

The song concludes with the man regretting his decision to migrate, as he returns home defeated and saddled with derogatory nicknames. The lighthearted tone and comedic elements of the song mask the underlying message about the hardships of migration and the disillusionment that often accompanies the pursuit of a better life. Mamonas Assassinas use their unique style to create a song that is both entertaining and reflective of social issues.