O Que É o Que É

The song "O Que É o Que É" by Maria Bethânia is a vibrant celebration of life, urging listeners to embrace happiness without shame and to recognize the beauty in the journey of constant learning. The lyrics are a poetic inquiry into the essence of life, posing questions that reflect on its nature and purpose. Bethânia, a renowned Brazilian singer known for her emotive performances, delivers the song with a passion that underscores its message of joy and resilience.

Throughout the song, various perspectives on life are presented, suggesting that life can be seen as fleeting and insignificant, or as a profound divine mystery. The song acknowledges the struggles and pleasures of life, the pain of unrequited love, and the suffering that can accompany existence. However, it ultimately sides with an optimistic view, placing trust in the 'moça' (young woman) who symbolizes hope and faith. The chorus, with its repeated affirmation that life is beautiful, serves as a powerful counterpoint to any negativity or doubt.

The song concludes with a call to live without shame and to sing about the beauty of being an eternal learner. This message is a reminder that life, despite its imperfections and challenges, is a precious gift to be celebrated. The simplicity and purity of children's answers to the song's central question serve as a guiding principle, suggesting that life's beauty lies in its simplicity and the joy of living itself.