Hoje
Camisa de Vênus
The Disillusionment of Modern Life in 'Hoje' by Camisa de Vênus
Camisa de Vênus's song 'Hoje' paints a vivid picture of the disillusionment and chaos of modern life. The lyrics open with the protagonist receiving distant news and seeing everyday objects like forks and knives, which symbolize the mundane and repetitive nature of daily existence. Despite having material possessions like money and a CPF (Brazilian tax ID), the protagonist feels a deep sense of identity loss, unable to remember their own name. This sets the tone for a narrative filled with existential angst and a sense of being deceived by societal promises.
The song continues to explore the futility of traditional institutions like schools and universities, suggesting that they offer nothing of real value to the protagonist. The mention of being a black belt and playing the guitar adds layers to the character, showing that despite having skills and talents, they still feel unfulfilled. The chaotic lifestyle of working at night and sleeping during the day further emphasizes the disarray in the protagonist's life. The recurring line 'Não há mais festas, nem carnaval' (There are no more parties, nor carnival) underscores a loss of joy and celebration, which are significant aspects of Brazilian culture.
As the song progresses, the protagonist navigates through a congested, technology-driven world filled with superficial relationships. The references to video cassettes, computers, and 'coded men' highlight the impersonal and mechanical nature of modern interactions. The protagonist's romantic entanglements are equally confusing and unfulfilling, adding to their sense of being overwhelmed. The final verses touch on physical ailments and a desire to escape, symbolized by the mention of Amsterdam via Paris. The repeated refrain of being 'atrasado' (late) encapsulates the overall theme of feeling out of sync with the world, constantly running behind in a race they never signed up for.