Pierrot Apaixonado

Noel Rosa's song "Pierrot Apaixonado" tells the poignant story of a Pierrot, a character from the traditional Italian commedia dell'arte, who is deeply in love with a Columbina. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of Pierrot's emotional journey, from his initial infatuation to his ultimate heartbreak. The song begins with Pierrot, who is always singing, falling into despair because of his unrequited love for Columbina. This sets the stage for a classic tale of love and sorrow, where the innocent and devoted Pierrot is left heartbroken by the more carefree and indifferent Columbina.

The narrative takes a turn when Columbina enters a bar, drinks heavily, and dismisses Pierrot in a rather harsh manner, telling him to go have ice cream with Harlequin, another character from the commedia dell'arte. This rejection is a significant blow to Pierrot, symbolizing the often cruel and capricious nature of love. The lyrics suggest that great loves often end in sadness, as evidenced by Pierrot's experience. After being spurned, Pierrot tries to cope with his pain by drinking vermouth and eating peanuts, a humble attempt to drown his sorrows.

In the final verse, Pierrot, who was once cheerful and singing, falls into a life of revelry to distract himself from his heartbreak. He grabs a glass and starts laughing, a bittersweet image that captures the duality of his emotions—trying to find joy amidst his despair. Noel Rosa's lyrics masterfully blend humor and tragedy, reflecting the complexities of love and the human condition. The song is a testament to the enduring themes of love, rejection, and the ways people cope with emotional pain.