Fado Lezíria

Carlos do Carmo's 'Fado Lezíria' is a poetic homage to the Ribatejo region of Portugal, a place known for its rich cultural heritage and deep connection to the land and sea. The song opens with vivid imagery of a horse galloping along the sandy shores, drinking the salty and sweet waters of the Ribatejo. This scene sets the tone for a narrative that intertwines the natural beauty of the region with the lives of its people, particularly the 'campinos' or cattle herders who have historically been the pioneers of this land.

The chorus, or 'refrão,' serves as a rallying cry for resilience and hope. The lines 'Tira o Barrete, põe o colete' (Take off the cap, put on the vest) and 'Pega de caras o teu destino' (Face your destiny head-on) are metaphors for courage and determination. The color green, mentioned repeatedly, symbolizes hope and prosperity, urging the listener to embrace their heritage and face life's challenges with strength and optimism. The reference to teaching the horse that 'green is hope, green is gold' further emphasizes the importance of maintaining a hopeful outlook.

The song also pays tribute to the cultural elements of Ribatejo, including bullfighting and literature. The mention of Garcia Lorca, a renowned Spanish poet, and the prose of Redol, a Portuguese writer, highlights the artistic influences that shape the region's identity. The 'praça de aventuras' (square of adventures) and the 'mundo de passes e faienas' (world of passes and faenas) evoke the drama and artistry of bullfighting, a tradition deeply rooted in Ribatejo's culture. Through these references, Carlos do Carmo not only celebrates the physical landscape of Ribatejo but also its rich cultural tapestry, making 'Fado Lezíria' a heartfelt tribute to a land and its people.