The Eternal Echoes of Memory

Carlos Drummond de Andrade's poem-turned-song, 'Memória,' delves into the complex interplay between loss, memory, and the enduring nature of certain experiences. The opening lines, 'Amar o perdido / deixa confundido / este coração,' suggest a heart bewildered by the act of loving what is lost. This sentiment captures the universal human experience of grappling with the remnants of past loves and cherished moments that have slipped away, leaving a lingering sense of confusion and longing.

The next stanza, 'Nada pode o olvido / contra o sem sentido / apelo do Não,' speaks to the futility of forgetting. The 'apelo do Não' (appeal of No) represents the irrational and often overwhelming urge to hold onto memories, even when they no longer serve a practical purpose. This highlights the paradox of memory: while it can be a source of pain, it is also an intrinsic part of our identity and emotional landscape.

In the lines 'As coisas tangíveis / tornam-se insensíveis / à palma da mão,' Drummond contrasts the tangible with the intangible. Physical objects lose their significance over time, becoming 'insensíveis' (insensitive) to our touch. However, 'as coisas findas, / muito mais que lindas, / essas ficarão,' suggests that the true beauty lies in the ephemeral. The things that have ended, those fleeting moments and experiences, remain etched in our memories far more vividly than any physical object. This poignant reflection on the enduring power of memory underscores the idea that what truly matters are the experiences and emotions that shape us, even after they have passed.

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  1. No Meio do Caminho
  2. Anedota Búlgara
  3. O Homem; As Viagens
  4. Carta
  5. José
  6. Memória
  7. Campo de Flores
  8. Confidência do Itabirano
  9. O Lutador
  10. Desaparecimento de Luisa
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