Eu Não Sou Santo
Bezerra da Silva
A Saint of the Streets: Bezerra da Silva's Vision of Justice
In 'Eu Não Sou Santo,' Bezerra da Silva paints a vivid picture of a world where he, despite not being a saint, envisions himself as a force for justice and change. The song opens with a declaration of his non-saintly status, setting the stage for a series of hypothetical actions he would take if he had saint-like powers. This juxtaposition between his self-proclaimed imperfections and his noble aspirations creates a compelling narrative that resonates deeply with the struggles of marginalized communities in Brazil.
Bezerra da Silva imagines using his powers to perform miracles that directly benefit the poor and disenfranchised. He speaks of helping the poor win the lottery, urbanizing favelas, and sending messengers to free the unjustly imprisoned. This reflects a deep-seated desire for social justice and equality, highlighting the systemic issues faced by the underprivileged. The mention of 'ladrões de gravata' (thieves in ties) being jailed underscores his disdain for corrupt elites who exploit the system, contrasting sharply with his support for the 'bom malandro' (good hustler) who lives by a code of honor.
The song also delves into the cultural and social fabric of the favelas. Bezerra envisions building a chapel, schools, and a registry office, creating a sense of community and order. His dream of a place where people pray, children study, and couples marry legally speaks to a longing for dignity and respect within these often-overlooked communities. The repeated refrain 'Eu não sou santo' serves as a humble reminder of his humanity, even as he dreams of making a saintly impact.
Bezerra da Silva's 'Eu Não Sou Santo' is a powerful commentary on social justice, community, and the fight against corruption. Through his vivid storytelling and poignant lyrics, he gives voice to the hopes and struggles of those living on the margins of society.