Depois Das Seis
Belchior
The Struggles and Yearnings of the Working Class
Belchior's song "Depois Das Seis" paints a vivid picture of the daily struggles and desires of the working class. The song begins with the end of a workday, marked by the factory whistle, signaling a temporary escape from the monotonous and grueling labor. The workers leave without any desire to return, highlighting their dissatisfaction and the harsh reality of their lives. The line "Como o mar não tá pra peixe" (As the sea is not for fish) metaphorically suggests that the current circumstances are unfavorable, adding to the sense of hopelessness.
The song then shifts to a more intimate and personal plea, where the narrator invites a woman to share a moment of passion and respite. This invitation is not just for physical intimacy but also for a shared experience of rebirth and rest, a temporary escape from their harsh realities. The imagery of the setting sun drying the sweat from the narrator's face symbolizes the end of a hard day's work and the fleeting moments of relief that follow.
Belchior also touches on the broader social context, criticizing the immorality of a society where being human and expressing oneself is seen as immoral. The narrator's lament about knowing the moon but not his own backyard underscores the alienation and disconnection from one's immediate environment. The song concludes with a sense of resignation and a desire for change, as the narrator expresses a longing for a different life, away from the current struggles. The recurring theme of seeking something better, despite the odds, resonates deeply with the listener, making "Depois Das Seis" a poignant reflection on the human condition.