Querencia Abandonada
Os Bertussi
Echoes of a Forgotten Homeland
Os Bertussi's "Querencia Abandonada" is a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the inevitable changes that come with it. The song paints a vivid picture of a once-vibrant homeland, now left in desolation. The narrator returns to their birthplace, only to find it abandoned and echoing with memories of the past. The imagery of the "eco" responding in the canyons and the "porteira do campo do pensamento" opening to memories of youth evokes a deep sense of nostalgia and loss.
The song is rich with cultural references, particularly to the gaucho lifestyle, which is central to the identity of the southern Brazilian region. The mention of the "tropeiro" and the "chimarrão" are nods to traditional practices that have faded away. The "chaleira" and "carreta" symbolize the tools and vehicles of a bygone era, now left to decay. These elements highlight the erosion of cultural heritage and the disappearance of the once-thriving community life.
In the final verses, the narrator's longing for the past is palpable. The "matungo velho" and the desire to "gritar aos quatro cantos" underscore a deep yearning for the return of the "gaúchos" and the spirit of the "epopeia farroupilha." This historical reference to the Farroupilha Revolution, a significant event in the history of Rio Grande do Sul, adds a layer of historical depth to the song, emphasizing the loss of cultural and historical continuity. "Querencia Abandonada" is a heartfelt tribute to a lost way of life, resonating with anyone who has witnessed the fading of their cultural roots.