Cheira Bem, Cheira A Lisboa

Amália Rodrigues, often hailed as the 'Queen of Fado,' captures the essence of Lisbon in her song 'Cheira Bem, Cheira A Lisboa.' The lyrics paint a vivid olfactory portrait of the city, intertwining its scents with its cultural and emotional landscape. The song opens with the imagery of Lisbon at dawn, where the city smells of both the sun and the moon, suggesting a blend of day and night, light and shadow. The first tram of the day harmonizes with the sounds of the riverbank, creating a symphony of urban life.

Rodrigues continues to explore the sensory experiences of Lisbon, describing how the city smells after rain, evoking the 'promised land.' The scent of rosemary during processions and the aroma of traditional dishes like 'iscas com elas' in hidden taverns add layers of cultural richness. The recurring refrain, 'Cheira bem, cheira a Lisboa,' emphasizes the city's unique and pleasant smells, from flowers and the sea to the bustling markets and hidden alleys.

The song also delves into the emotional and social aspects of Lisbon. The scent of roasted chestnuts in winter and ripe fruit in summer evoke a sense of seasonal change and continuity. The fado, a genre deeply associated with Rodrigues, is described as always smelling of loneliness, capturing the melancholic essence of the music. The lyrics also touch on the youthful exuberance and romantic encounters, where the scent of a smile or a girl can make young men lose their senses. Through these vivid descriptions, Rodrigues not only celebrates the physical beauty of Lisbon but also its emotional and cultural depth, making 'Cheira Bem, Cheira A Lisboa' a heartfelt ode to her beloved city.