Regresso
António Calvário
Nostalgia and Homecoming in António Calvário's 'Regresso'
António Calvário's song 'Regresso' is a heartfelt ode to his homeland, filled with deep nostalgia and a longing for the simplicity and comfort of his childhood. The lyrics express a profound sense of saudade, a Portuguese term that encapsulates a deep emotional state of nostalgic longing for something or someone that one loves and is absent. Calvário's words paint a vivid picture of his homeland, evoking memories of old paths, sweet caresses, and the comforting presence of his motherland during difficult times.
The song's chorus, with its repetitive 'Ai ai ai,' emphasizes the emotional weight of returning to familiar places and the bittersweet joy of reliving past memories. The imagery of 'velhos caminhos' (old paths) and 'doces carinhos' (sweet caresses) highlights the intimate connection between the singer and his homeland. This connection is further deepened by the reference to 'bons tempos de menino' (good times of boyhood), suggesting that the singer's identity and destiny were shaped by his early experiences in his homeland.
Calvário's longing to hear the sparrows and feel the friendly shade of summer ('sombra amiga do estio') underscores the sensory and emotional richness of his memories. The mention of childhood games, like the spinning top ('peão da minha infância'), adds a layer of innocence and joy to the song, making the desire to return even more poignant. 'Regresso' is not just a song about returning to a physical place; it is a journey back to a time of purity, comfort, and emotional security, making it a powerful anthem for anyone who has ever felt the pull of their roots and the warmth of their past.