Herança

Apparicio Silva Rillo's song 'Herança' is a poignant ode to the past, capturing the essence of a bygone era with vivid imagery and heartfelt nostalgia. The lyrics transport listeners to a time when houses were built with character and history, painted in pale blues, whites, ochres, and yellows. These homes, with their high ceilings, balconies, and wooden latrines hidden among garden plants, symbolize a simpler, more connected way of life. The song paints a picture of a community where people knew each other by name, and life was intertwined with the rhythms of nature and tradition.

The song delves into the daily lives of the people who inhabited these homes. Men with names like Bento, Honorato, and Deoclécio, and women named Carlinda, Emerenciana, and Vicentina, lived simple yet fulfilling lives. The men engaged in activities like smoking and attending clubs, while the women were involved in child-rearing, embroidery, and baking. The community gathered for church services, funerals, and other communal events, creating a strong sense of belonging and continuity. The lyrics also highlight the role of religion, with detailed descriptions of church rituals and the priest's duties, juxtaposed with the community's reliance on both faith and practical skills.

'Herança' also reflects on the socio-political structure of the time, mentioning the 'coronéis' who led with authority earned through battles. The song emphasizes the balance between spiritual and physical needs, with women planting flowers and herbs, making candles, and cooking hearty meals. The relationship between humans and animals is also a central theme, with the cattle playing a crucial role in the town's economy and way of life. The song concludes by connecting the past to the present, acknowledging the legacy left by ancestors and the deep emotional ties to their traditions and way of life. This connection is symbolized by the enduring presence of old houses, family portraits, and the memories of grandparents' wisdom and sweetness.

'Herança' is a celebration of heritage, a reminder of the strength and resilience of past generations, and a call to honor and preserve their legacy. It speaks to the universal human experience of longing for the past and finding identity and meaning in the stories and traditions handed down through generations.