Coito das Araras
Cátia de França
The Timeless Dance of Nature and Longing in 'Coito das Araras'
Cátia de França's song 'Coito das Araras' is a poetic exploration of longing, nature, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a rural landscape, where the natural world and human emotions intertwine seamlessly. The song begins with a plea to a yellow-winged parrot to deliver a message of saudade (a deep emotional state of nostalgic longing) and anxiety to a loved one. This sets the tone for a narrative steeped in personal emotion and natural imagery.
The recurring motif of the 'coito das araras' (the mating place of macaws) serves as a metaphor for a place of natural beauty and timelessness. It is a place where everything remains unchanged, symbolizing the constancy of nature amidst the flux of human emotions. The mention of the 'gado pasta no Berra Boi' (cattle grazing in Berra Boi) reinforces this idea of an unchanging rural life. The song's imagery is rich with references to local flora and fauna, such as the araçá (a type of guava) and the touro (bull), grounding the listener in a specific cultural and geographical context.
The lyrics also delve into personal memories, capturing fleeting moments of joy and sorrow. The vivid description of a loved one 'despenteada, sorrindo, correndo pela rodagem' (disheveled, smiling, running along the road) evokes a sense of nostalgia and the passage of time. The repeated references to distances ('meia distância, meia légua, légua e meia') emphasize the emotional and physical journey of the narrator. This blend of personal longing and natural imagery creates a poignant and evocative narrative that resonates deeply with the listener.
'Coito das Araras' is a beautiful example of how Cátia de França uses her music to capture the essence of rural life and human emotion. Her ability to weave together personal and natural elements creates a timeless piece that speaks to the universal experience of longing and the enduring beauty of the natural world.