Miss Perfumado

Cesaria Evora's 'Miss Perfumado' is a hauntingly beautiful song that captures the essence of longing and the desire for a peaceful end. Sung in Cape Verdean Creole, the lyrics express a deep yearning to die in the comforting shadow of a beloved's gentle and fragrant presence. The repeated plea, 'Dexa-m morrê ta sunha,' which translates to 'Let me die dreaming,' underscores a wish for a serene departure, enveloped in the tender gaze of a 'miss perfumado'—a fragrant lady.

The song is rich with metaphors that evoke a sense of tranquility and fulfillment. The imagery of a bird ('ponba') being happy in its nest is a poignant metaphor for the singer's own contentment in the presence of the beloved. This comparison highlights the simplicity and purity of the singer's desire—to find peace and happiness in the shadow of a loved one's affectionate eyes. The recurring mention of 'sónbra di bo odju maguadu' (the shadow of your sorrowful eyes) adds a layer of melancholy, suggesting that even in sadness, there is a profound beauty and solace.

Cesaria Evora, known as the 'Barefoot Diva,' was celebrated for her soulful voice and morna music, a genre that often deals with themes of love, loss, and longing. 'Miss Perfumado' is a quintessential example of her ability to convey deep emotions through simple yet evocative lyrics. The song's gentle melody and Evora's heartfelt delivery create an atmosphere of introspection and emotional depth, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences of love and loss. Through 'Miss Perfumado,' Evora offers a poignant reminder of the beauty found in vulnerability and the universal desire for a peaceful, dream-filled end.