Troca de Calçada

The song 'Troca de Calçada' by Marília Mendonça is a poignant narrative that delves into the life of a woman who has been marginalized by society. The lyrics implore the listener to refrain from judgment and to recognize the complex circumstances that have led her to her current situation. The song's title, which translates to 'Change of Sidewalk,' metaphorically represents how people avoid her, both physically and emotionally, due to her social status and the work she does.

Marília Mendonça was known for her emotive storytelling through music, often highlighting the struggles and resilience of women. In 'Troca de Calçada,' she sings about a woman who once had dreams of love and marriage but found herself selling her body on the streets, a victim of exploitation and abandonment. The lyrics suggest that the woman had to emotionally numb herself ('I froze my heart') to cope with the harsh realities of her life, using physical adornments like makeup and high heels to mask her inner pain. The song criticizes societal prejudice and the lack of empathy towards individuals who are forced into difficult choices for survival.

The chorus of the song is particularly powerful, contrasting the physical act of people avoiding her with the emotional pain of love that hurts more than their disgusted glances. It calls for understanding and compassion, suggesting that if people knew even a fraction of her story, they would offer support instead of scorn. 'Troca de Calçada' is a call to look beyond surface judgments and to recognize the humanity in everyone, regardless of their circumstances.