Quero

Carlos Drummond de Andrade's poem "Quero" delves deeply into the human need for constant affirmation of love. The speaker expresses a desire to hear the words "Eu te amo" (I love you) repeatedly, almost obsessively, to feel secure in the love they receive. This need is so intense that it must be fulfilled every day, every hour, and even every few minutes. The repetition of these words serves as a lifeline, a way to anchor the speaker in the certainty of being loved.

The poem explores the fragility of love and the speaker's insecurity. The speaker admits that without the continuous verbal affirmation, they cannot be sure of their partner's love. This uncertainty is so profound that it leads to a sense of existential dread. The speaker's demand for the constant repetition of "I love you" highlights a fear of abandonment and a deep-seated need for reassurance. The poem suggests that love, for the speaker, is not just an emotion but a constant, verbalized presence.

Drummond de Andrade uses vivid metaphors to convey the intensity of this need. The idea that love can "evaporate" if not constantly affirmed speaks to the ephemeral nature of emotions and the human tendency to doubt. The speaker's insistence on hearing "I love you" as a "perene comunicado" (perennial communication) underscores the importance of words in maintaining emotional bonds. The poem ultimately portrays love as a dynamic force that requires continuous nurturing through verbal affirmation, reflecting the complexities of human relationships and the perpetual quest for emotional security.