Sem Açúcar

Maria Bethânia's song 'Sem Açúcar' delves into the complexities of a tumultuous relationship, marked by unpredictability and emotional highs and lows. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman who is deeply entangled in a love that oscillates between tenderness and neglect. Each day brings a different experience, leaving her uncertain about her partner's actions and intentions. This unpredictability is captured in lines like 'Todo dia ele faz diferente' and 'Não sei se ele volta da rua,' highlighting the instability and emotional rollercoaster she endures.

The song uses contrasting imagery to depict the dual nature of the relationship. On odd days, she receives chocolate, a symbol of sweetness and affection, while on even days, she lives on 'brisa,' or breeze, indicating a lack of substance and nourishment. This dichotomy extends to their interactions, where he alternates between physical affection and emotional distance. The line 'Dia útil ele me bate, Dia santo ele me alisa' starkly contrasts the harshness of everyday life with the gentleness of sacred days, emphasizing the inconsistency in his behavior.

Bethânia's lyrics also explore themes of power and submission. The woman describes herself as a 'flor' (flower) by day and a 'cavalo' (horse) by night, suggesting a shift from delicate beauty to a more utilitarian role. Her partner's desires and whims dominate the relationship, as seen in 'A vontade dele é a mais justa,' while her own passions are dismissed as a joke. The imagery of his mouth as a 'cadeado' (lock) and her body as a 'fogueira' (bonfire) further illustrates the suppression of her desires and the burning intensity of her emotions. Ultimately, 'Sem Açúcar' is a poignant exploration of love's complexities, where moments of tenderness are overshadowed by unpredictability and emotional turmoil.