Força Estranha

Caetano Veloso's 'Força Estranha' (Strange Force) is a song that delves into the contemplation of life, art, and the inexorable flow of time. The lyrics, poetic and introspective, invite the listener to reflect on the moments that define our existence and the creative impulse that drives us.

The opening verses depict a scene of a boy running, with time playing around his path, suggesting a sense of innocence and the fleeting nature of childhood. Veloso then transitions to an image of a woman preparing for a new life, possibly referencing pregnancy and the creation of life as an artistic act. This reverence for life and art is a recurring theme in Veloso's work, highlighting the interconnectedness of all things and the role of the artist in capturing the beauty of existence. The mention of the sun and the road that he never crossed symbolizes the ongoing journey of life and the constant presence of opportunities and experiences that lie ahead.

The chorus, with its powerful declaration of an inner force that compels the singer to express himself through song, serves as a testament to the artist's need to create. This 'strange force' is an acknowledgment of the mysterious inspiration that artists often feel, which cannot be ignored or suppressed. The song also touches on the idea of timelessness, as seen in the artist with white hair who remains ageless through his art. The final verses, which speak of the futility of human conflicts and desires in the face of life's grandeur, reinforce the message that the true essence of existence is found in the simple, enduring elements of life: the sun, the road, the foot, and the ground.