Ploft

Belchior's song 'Ploft' is a poignant exploration of the Northeast region of Brazil, a place often overlooked and marginalized. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the Northeast, sitting at the corner of the map, forgotten by the world's rulers in an age of light. This imagery sets the stage for a deeper reflection on the region's struggles and its rich cultural tapestry. The mention of the Atlantic, Americas, Africas, and the blending of indigenous, poor, and young people into a 'negro blues' underscores the historical and social complexities that define the Northeast. The use of multiple languages, including Portuguese and Spanish, further emphasizes the interconnectedness and shared struggles of Latin America.

The song delves into the pain and color of the Northeast, highlighting the visible and invisible aspects of its reality. The reference to 'Las venas abiertas de Latino-América' (The Open Veins of Latin America) is a nod to Eduardo Galeano's seminal work, which critiques the exploitation and suffering of Latin American countries. Belchior's lyrics suggest a sense of solidarity and shared destiny among the region's poets, primates, and even extraterrestrial beings, symbolizing a universal quest for understanding and connection.

In the latter part of the song, Belchior celebrates the anarchy of the body, daily passion, and the joy of the people in democracy, encapsulating the essence of sensuality, happiness, and freedom. The repeated themes of pleasure, work, and the liberation sought by women reflect a yearning for a more equitable and liberated society. The song's closing lines, with their emphasis on sensuality, youthfulness, and the transformative power of the sun and stars, evoke a sense of alchemy and utopia. Belchior's 'Ploft' is a rich tapestry of emotions, cultural references, and social commentary, inviting listeners to dance and dream of a better world.