Esta Melodia

Marisa Monte's 'Esta Melodia' is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the enduring power of memory. The song opens with the imagery of dawn breaking, symbolizing a new beginning, yet the protagonist is immediately drawn back into the past by a sweet melody. This melody serves as a powerful reminder of nights filled with moonlight and the presence of a loved one who is no longer there. The juxtaposition of the new day with the haunting memories of the past sets the tone for the entire song, highlighting the struggle between moving forward and holding on to cherished memories.

The lyrics reveal a deep sense of longing and resignation. The protagonist reminisces about a time when they had someone special waiting for them, a time now lost. The repetition of the phrase 'Desde o dia em que ela foi embora' (Since the day she left) underscores the permanence of this loss and the way it has etched itself into the protagonist's memory. The melody becomes a vessel for these memories, a way to keep the past alive even as time moves on. This theme of memory and music intertwining is a common motif in Marisa Monte's work, reflecting her ability to blend personal emotion with universal experiences.

As the song progresses, the protagonist expresses a faint hope that their loved one might return, but this hope is tempered by a sense of divine resignation. The plea for patience from God indicates a struggle with the pain of absence, a pain that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. The recurring 'Laiá laiá' refrain adds a layer of melancholy, its simplicity contrasting with the complex emotions conveyed in the verses. This refrain acts as a musical sigh, a moment of emotional release amidst the sorrow. Through 'Esta Melodia,' Marisa Monte captures the essence of longing and the bittersweet nature of memories, creating a song that resonates deeply with anyone who has experienced loss.