Viva a Vida!

In 'Viva a Vida!' by Milionário e José Rico, the lyrics paint a vivid picture of a transformative journey from despair to joy, driven by the power of love. The song begins with the protagonist breaking a glass of bitterness and casting its shards to the wind, symbolizing a deliberate rejection of past sorrows. This act of defiance is followed by a triumphant cry, 'Viva a vida!' or 'Live life!' The return of the sun, which had been absent, signifies the return of happiness and warmth, brought back by the smile of a beloved woman.

The lyrics further explore the profound impact of this love, describing how the protagonist's tears have dried forever and how the presence of the loved one has banished loneliness. The intense anxiety that once plagued the protagonist is replaced by a sense of calm and fulfillment. The metaphor of 'mouth-to-mouth resuscitation' vividly illustrates how the beloved's kiss has revived the protagonist, bringing them back to life from the brink of emotional death.

The chorus emphasizes the central theme that only love gives true meaning to life. Love is portrayed as the ultimate inspiration and the only force that can sustain hope. Without love, the song suggests, life loses its purpose. The repetition of these lines underscores the message that love is the foundation of all happiness and creativity. The song concludes with a heartfelt declaration that this very song was written out of love, encapsulating the idea that love is the driving force behind all meaningful expression.