Brincar de Índio

The song 'Brincar de Índio' by Xuxa, a Brazilian singer and TV host popular among children, is a playful tune that invites listeners to engage in a game of pretending to be indigenous people. The lyrics suggest a scenario free of conflict ('Mas sem mocinho pra me pegar'), indicating a desire to engage with indigenous culture in a peaceful and respectful manner. The song emphasizes traditional activities such as fishing ('Minha canoa e vou pescar'), making a fire ('Vamos fazer fogueira'), and celebrating the fruits of the earth ('Comer do fruto que a terra dá'), which are all associated with a harmonious relationship with nature.

However, the song also touches on the historical and contemporary struggles of indigenous peoples. The lines 'Índio já foi um dia / O dono dessa terra' acknowledge the fact that indigenous people were once the sole inhabitants of the land, and the subsequent 'Índio ficou sozinho / Índio querer carinho' reflect the isolation and desire for recognition and affection that many indigenous communities feel today. The song calls for a return to peace ('Índio querer de volta a sua paz') and ends with a message from Xuxa herself, urging the young listeners ('Baixinhos') to play the game of being indigenous with respect and to teach others to respect the indigenous people, who are 'a natureza viva,' or 'living nature.'

The song, therefore, serves as a child-friendly introduction to the importance of indigenous cultures and the need to respect and protect their rights and heritage. It uses the metaphor of play to educate and inform, while also acknowledging the serious issues faced by indigenous populations. The song's catchy melody and simple lyrics make it accessible to children, which is in line with Xuxa's career-long commitment to children's entertainment and education.