Sorrir É Aconselhável

Airam Capuani's song "Sorrir É Aconselhável" is a satirical and darkly humorous exploration of the cycles of life, death, and rebirth. The song follows the character Jorge through various incarnations, each more absurd and tragic than the last. Initially, Jorge dies and is reincarnated as a guinea pig in Brazil, living in squalid conditions. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of his miserable existence, emphasizing the neglect and filth he endures. This serves as a metaphor for the harsh realities and struggles many face in life, often feeling trapped and powerless.

The narrative takes a bizarre turn as Jorge dies again, this time reincarnating as a cow in the United States. Here, he becomes part of the food industry, specifically a hamburger, consumed by an American. The repetitive chant of "Pão, queijo, Jorge, queijo, pão" (Bread, cheese, Jorge, cheese, bread) underscores the commodification of life and the dehumanizing aspects of consumer culture. The mention of being eaten with a paper straw adds a layer of irony, highlighting the superficial attempts at environmental consciousness while ignoring deeper ethical issues.

The song concludes with a reflection on Jorge's repeated cycles of life and death, urging him to make different choices in his next life. This can be seen as a commentary on the human condition, the possibility of change, and the importance of resilience. The final lines, where the narrator casually mentions going to the market, juxtapose the profound themes of the song with the mundanity of everyday life, reinforcing the absurdity and complexity of existence. Through its dark humor and surreal storytelling, "Sorrir É Aconselhável" invites listeners to reflect on their own lives and the choices they make, all while maintaining a sense of levity and irony.