Lisboa Oxalá

Carlos do Carmo's song "Lisboa Oxalá" is a poignant tribute to the city of Lisbon, capturing its essence through vivid imagery and heartfelt emotion. The lyrics paint a picture of a city that is both beautiful and melancholic, with references to its iconic jacaranda trees, traditional clothing, and the fado music that defines its cultural identity. The use of the word "oxalá," which means "hopefully" or "God willing" in Portuguese, adds a layer of longing and hope to the song, suggesting a deep connection to the city's past and future.

The song delves into the duality of Lisbon, portraying it as a place of both light and shadow. The mention of "Lisboa lisboeta, da noite mais escura" (Lisbon of the darkest night) and "ruas feitas sombra" (streets made of shadows) highlights the city's more somber and solitary aspects. Yet, there is also a sense of resilience and enduring spirit, as seen in the lines "pisa o chão, pisa a pedra, pisa a vida que é dura" (tread the ground, tread the stone, tread the hard life). This juxtaposition of hardship and beauty is a recurring theme in fado music, which often explores themes of saudade, a deep emotional state of nostalgic longing.

The song also touches on the timeless nature of Lisbon, with references to faces from the past and the enduring spirit of its people. The imagery of a face peeking from behind a curtain and the laughter of a "maré viva" (lively tide) evoke a sense of continuity and connection across generations. The final verses reflect a sense of destiny and hope, with Lisbon portrayed as a "cidade marinheira" (seafaring city) and a "caravela da noite" (night's caravel) that will one day reach its destination. This metaphor underscores the city's historical ties to exploration and discovery, while also suggesting a hopeful future.

"Lisboa Oxalá" is a rich tapestry of emotions and imagery, capturing the soul of Lisbon through the lens of fado. It is a song that resonates with anyone who has experienced the city's unique blend of beauty, melancholy, and enduring spirit.