Viola Violar

Milton Nascimento's 'Viola Violar' is a poignant exploration of time, change, and the bittersweet nature of life. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who finds solace in their home, with their viola (a type of guitar) serving as a symbol of both comfort and the remnants of past experiences. The opening lines, 'Eu estou bem seguro nesta casa / Minha viola é o resto de uma feira,' suggest a sense of security and nostalgia, as the viola represents the remains of a once-bustling market, now a relic of simpler times.

The recurring theme of 'brindando a morte em tom de brincadeira' (toasting death in a playful tone) introduces a complex interplay between life and death, joy and sorrow. This juxtaposition is further emphasized by the imagery of 'arranha-céu, ave noturna' (skyscraper, nocturnal bird), which evokes a sense of urban isolation and the passage of time. The mention of 'vinte anos' (twenty years) and 'vinte fracassos' (twenty failures) underscores the inevitability of change and the accumulation of life's disappointments, yet there is also a hint of resilience and adaptability in the phrase 'mudar de tom' (change the tone).

The song's chorus, with its references to 'vinte morenas para desejar' (twenty brunettes to desire) and 'vinte batidas de limão' (twenty lemon beats), adds a layer of sensuality and longing. These lines suggest a yearning for connection and the simple pleasures of life, even amidst the backdrop of hardship and uncertainty. The repetition of 'violar' (to violate or play the viola) serves as a metaphor for breaking through the monotony and pain, using music and memory as a means of coping and finding meaning. In 'Viola Violar,' Nascimento masterfully weaves together themes of nostalgia, resilience, and the human condition, creating a rich tapestry of emotions and reflections.