Zera a Reza

Caetano Veloso's 'Zera a Reza' is a lyrical masterpiece that delves into the complexities of life, love, and spirituality. The repetitive chorus, 'Vela leva a seta tesa, Rema na maré, Rima mira a terça certa, E zera a reza,' serves as a metaphor for navigating life's unpredictable tides. The imagery of a sailboat ('vela') and the act of rowing ('rema') against the current ('maré') symbolizes the constant effort required to maintain balance and direction in life. The phrase 'zera a reza' suggests a reset or a fresh start, emphasizing the importance of renewal and resilience.

The song also explores the duality of human experience, oscillating between pain and pleasure. Veloso sings, 'Que a gente pode entre dor e prazer, Pagar pra ver o que pode e o que não pode ser,' highlighting the inevitability of both joy and suffering. This duality is further reflected in the line, 'Chão é céu, E é seu e meu,' suggesting that heaven and earth, joy and sorrow, are intertwined and shared experiences. The mention of 'carnaval' and 'espalha espelhos' evokes the vibrant, chaotic, and reflective nature of life, where every individual ('cada cara e corpo') is unique yet part of a collective human experience.

In the latter part of the song, Veloso addresses the theme of spirituality and religion. He declares, 'Não quero ter religião,' rejecting organized religion in favor of a more personal and fluid spiritual practice. This sentiment is echoed in the lines, 'Minha reza é barulho, Minha reza é silêncio, Minha reza é movimento,' which portray prayer as a multifaceted and dynamic act. Veloso's critique of religious and political figures ('Moço bacana, sacana na TV de paletó') underscores his desire for authenticity and his disdain for hypocrisy. The song ultimately calls for a return to simplicity and sincerity, urging listeners to 'zera a reza' and find their own path in the chaotic sea of life.