Era Uma Vez (feat. Kell Smith)
Aviões do Forró
The Nostalgic Longing for Childhood Innocence
The song "Era Uma Vez" by Aviões do Forró, featuring Kell Smith, is a poignant reflection on the innocence of childhood and the inevitable journey into adulthood. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia for a time when life was simpler, and the world was perceived through the lens of a child's imagination. The opening verses paint a picture of a carefree existence where clouds are made of cotton, and one could oscillate between being a hero and a villain, with the only consequences being a snack, a warm bath, and perhaps a scratch.
As the song progresses, it touches on the theme of growing up and the desire to return to the beginning. The chorus poignantly states that a scraped knee hurts far less than a broken heart, highlighting the contrast between the physical pains of childhood and the emotional pains of adulthood. This comparison serves as a metaphor for the complexity and challenges that come with maturity, and the longing to return to a time when life's problems were simpler and more easily soothed.
The song concludes with a message of resilience and hope. It acknowledges that even after realizing the world can be a harsh place, one should not accept its cruelty as normal. It encourages maintaining the magic of believing in real happiness, which is found along the journey of life, not just at its destination. The repetition of 'Era uma vez,' which translates to 'Once upon a time,' reinforces the fairy tale-like reminiscence of youth and the universal wish to recapture its lost magic.