Verão

António Zambujo's song "Verão" paints a vivid picture of the summer season in the Alentejo region of Portugal. The lyrics are rich with imagery, describing the intense heat and the hard work of the harvesters. The 'brasa dourada e celeste' (golden and celestial ember) metaphorically represents the scorching sun that burns the rugged land, turning the wheat fields golden. This imagery sets the stage for the ceifeiros (reapers) who are depicted as bending over, tirelessly harvesting and bundling the 'benção loira da vida' (blonde blessing of life), which symbolizes the wheat and, by extension, the sustenance it provides.

The song continues to delve into the harsh realities of life in Alentejo. The sun is described as 'ferindo, sem pressa' (wounding, without haste), emphasizing the slow, relentless nature of the heat. The laborers' bronzed skin and sweat-soaked shirts are testament to their hard work and resilience. The phrase 'a vida é feita de brasa' (life is made of embers) poignantly captures the essence of their existence, one that is forged in the relentless heat and hard labor.

Despite the grueling conditions, there is a sense of pride and authenticity in the lives of the ceifeiros. Their song, described as 'dolente' (melancholic), reflects their enduring spirit. The lyrics acknowledge their goodness and truth, adding a layer of respect and admiration for these hardworking individuals. The song is a tribute to the ceifeiros' resilience and the vibrant, albeit challenging, life in Alentejo during the summer.