Vaca Profana

Caetano Veloso's 'Vaca Profana' is a rich tapestry of cultural references, personal musings, and a call for individual expression. The song's title, which translates to 'Profane Cow,' immediately sets a tone of irreverence and defiance. Veloso, a prominent figure in Brazilian music and a key player in the Tropicália movement, is known for his poetic lyrics and his ability to blend different musical styles and cultural elements.

The lyrics juxtapose the sacred and the profane, suggesting a breaking away from traditional norms and embracing a more liberated, expressive self. The 'vaca profana' or 'profane cow' is a metaphor for nonconformity, urging to put 'your horns out and above the herd,' symbolizing the act of standing out and refusing to follow the crowd. The reference to 'divine udders' and the contrasting 'good milk' and 'bad milk' could be interpreted as a play on what society deems good or bad, with Veloso advocating for the acceptance of all aspects of life, including those that are often rejected or considered taboo.

The song also travels through various cities and cultural landmarks, from Madrid to Barcelona, London to Bahia, and even mentions artists like Stevie Wonder and Thelonious Monk. This global journey reflects the interconnectedness of cultures and the universal search for artistic and personal freedom. Veloso's lyrics encourage embracing the world's diversity and finding beauty in the unconventional, all while maintaining a sense of humor and self-awareness about one's own quirks and the absurdity of life.