Verdade de Pescador

Moacyr Franco's song "Verdade de Pescador" is a playful and humorous exploration of local gossip and tall tales, often attributed to the colorful storytelling of fishermen. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a community where exaggerated stories and half-truths are the norm, reflecting a culture rich in oral tradition and humor. The repeated phrase "E é verdade, é sim, sinhô" (And it's true, yes sir) underscores the tongue-in-cheek nature of these tales, suggesting that the truth is often stretched for entertainment.

The song begins by describing the older men in the community as attractive and well-endowed, to the point where any improvement would be detrimental. This hyperbolic praise is followed by claims that these men are irresistible to women of all kinds, even without the aid of Viagra. The humor here lies in the absurdity of the claims, which are presented as undeniable truths by the ever-reliable fisherman.

As the song progresses, it shifts focus to the young women of the community, who are described as hardworking and virtuous, saving themselves for marriage despite their vivid imaginations. This idealized portrayal is again delivered with a wink, as the song acknowledges the gap between public virtue and private thoughts. The final verses turn to the young men, who are depicted as fit and attractive, only to reveal their true nature as passionate lovers after midnight. The song concludes with a satirical take on the community's self-perception, claiming that everyone is virtuous and wealthy, a clear nod to the tendency of people to see their own community in an overly positive light.

"Verdade de Pescador" is a celebration of the art of storytelling and the joy of shared community myths. It highlights the human tendency to embellish and the cultural importance of humor and exaggeration in social bonding.