O Rio

Barbatuques' song "O Rio" is a poetic exploration of life's journey, using the metaphor of a river to convey the passage of time and the experiences that shape us. The lyrics describe the river's path from its source to the sea, symbolizing the human experience from birth to maturity. The river's journey is paralleled with the narrator's own life, emphasizing the natural progression and the inevitability of change.

The song begins with the idea of always thinking about going towards the sea, which represents the ultimate destination or goal in life. The river's journey is likened to the human experience, where being born is already a step towards this journey. The lyrics suggest a deep connection between the river and the sea, hinting at the shared destiny and the call that both feel. This connection is further emphasized by the narrator's own birth, described as descending a mountain, symbolizing the start of their life's journey.

As the river flows, it encounters various landscapes and challenges, much like a person faces different phases and obstacles in life. The mention of the river being watched by thirsty lands and the fear of the great thirst of straw represents the struggles and desires that one encounters. The river's journey to the sea is also a metaphor for personal growth and the pursuit of one's goals, leaving behind the familiar and embracing new experiences. The narrator walks alongside people who are also on their own journeys, carrying with them the rivers they encounter, symbolizing the shared human experience and the connections we make along the way.