Na Boca do Sol
Arthur Verocai
Nostalgia and Longing in Arthur Verocai's 'Na Boca do Sol'
Arthur Verocai's 'Na Boca do Sol' is a poignant reflection on the artist's memories of his hometown. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a small, interior city where the arrival of the train symbolizes the passage of time and the arrival of new experiences. The train is a central metaphor, representing both the physical and emotional journeys that shape the lives of the town's inhabitants. The mention of the artist's mother looking at the station and envisioning future journeys within her children adds a layer of familial connection and continuity, suggesting that the town's history and future are intertwined with the personal growth of its residents.
The recurring imagery of the morning sun ('na boca do sol') evokes a sense of renewal and hope. This phrase, which translates to 'in the mouth of the sun,' suggests the beginning of a new day and the endless possibilities it brings. The artist reminisces about walking from the avenue to the station, a journey that seems to be filled with both fear and loneliness. This duality reflects the bittersweet nature of growing up and the mixed emotions that come with leaving one's childhood behind.
The song also touches on the theme of time passing, as seen in the lines about watching life go by on the shining tracks of the train. The train's daily arrival and departure symbolize the relentless march of time, swallowing tunnels and leaving behind a sense of unfinished business ('a preguiça não deixou fechar'). This line suggests a lingering sense of regret or missed opportunities, a common sentiment in reflections on the past. Ultimately, 'Na Boca do Sol' is a beautifully crafted ode to the artist's roots, capturing the essence of nostalgia, familial bonds, and the passage of time in a small town.