Lei do Silêncio
Ratos de Porão
The Unyielding Silence of Desperation
Ratos de Porão's song "Lei do Silêncio" paints a stark picture of life in the favelas, where violence and poverty are inextricably linked. The lyrics describe a world where crime is a common occurrence, happening right at one's doorstep, yet no one dares to speak out due to the "law of silence." This silence is not just a choice but a survival mechanism in a place where the "law of the jungle" prevails, and justice is often meted out by death itself.
The song highlights the pervasive fear that grips the community, where speaking out can lead to dire consequences. The "law of silence" is a metaphor for the oppressive environment where people are forced to remain quiet to protect themselves and their families. The lyrics suggest that even the police are ineffective, arriving only after the chaos has subsided, leaving residents to fend for themselves in a lawless land. This creates a cycle of fear and silence, where the threat of violence looms large, and justice is a distant dream.
Ratos de Porão, known for their hardcore punk style, use their music to critique social injustices and the harsh realities faced by marginalized communities. The song's raw energy and unflinching lyrics serve as a powerful commentary on the systemic issues that plague these areas. The mention of God being absent in the favelas underscores the sense of abandonment and hopelessness felt by those living in such dire conditions. "Lei do Silêncio" is a call to break the silence and confront the injustices that perpetuate this cycle of violence and despair.