Pega Eu

Bezerra da Silva's song "Pega Eu" is a humorous yet poignant commentary on poverty and crime. The narrative revolves around a thief who attempts to rob a poor man's house, only to be shocked by the extreme poverty he encounters. The thief, expecting to find valuables, is instead met with a broken chair, a newspaper serving as a mattress, a clay pot, and two bricks functioning as a stove. This unexpected sight of destitution almost gives the thief a heart attack, leading him to run out into the street, shouting for someone to catch him because he is a thief.

The song uses irony to highlight the absurdity of the situation. The thief, who is typically seen as a figure of fear and power, is rendered powerless and even pitiable by the sheer lack of anything worth stealing. This reversal of roles serves to underscore the harsh realities of poverty, where even criminals find nothing of value. The repeated refrain, "Pega eu, pega eu que eu sou ladrão" ("Catch me, catch me, I'm a thief"), becomes a cry of desperation rather than a boast, emphasizing the thief's disillusionment and the futility of his actions.

Bezerra da Silva, known for his samba and pagode music, often used his songs to address social issues in Brazil, particularly those affecting the poor and marginalized communities. His music is characterized by its witty lyrics and social commentary, making complex issues accessible and engaging. In "Pega Eu," he masterfully combines humor with a critical look at the socio-economic conditions that drive people to crime, ultimately questioning the societal structures that perpetuate such disparities.

The song also touches on the mental toll of living in such conditions. The thief's reaction, which includes talking to himself and punching walls, suggests a breakdown of mental health, further highlighting the psychological impact of poverty. This adds another layer to the song, making it not just a critique of material poverty but also of the emotional and mental strain it causes.