Em Cima Daquele Morro

The song 'Em Cima Daquele Morro' by Arnaud Rodrigues is a poignant reflection on environmental degradation and the impact of human actions on nature. The repetitive structure of the lyrics, with phrases like 'Passa boi, passa boiada' (Cattle pass, herds pass), creates a rhythm that mimics the ongoing, relentless exploitation of the land. The mention of 'movimento paca' (a lot of movement) could be interpreted as the bustling activity of wildlife or the hustle of human activity that disrupts the natural order.

The song also touches on the extinction of wildlife, as indicated by the lines 'Paca, tatu, cotia, no' (Paca, armadillo, agouti, no), highlighting that these animals are no longer found in the hills due to being hunted. The throwing of a stone into the water, which sinks without a response, symbolizes actions that have irreversible consequences, and the silence that follows indicates a lack of accountability or concern. The lyrics 'Ah, porque nêgo mata!' (Oh, because people kill!) serve as a stark reminder of the destructive tendencies of humans towards nature.

The final verses of the song are a powerful indictment of the environmental crisis. The death of fauna and flora, the silence of the sabiá (a type of bird), and the end of the cascading waterfalls are all metaphors for the loss of biodiversity and natural beauty. The repetition of 'Nêgo tá matando a mata' (People are killing the forest) emphasizes the urgency of the situation and serves as a call to action to stop the destruction before it's too late. The song is a lament for the environment, a warning about the consequences of human actions, and a plea for change.