Mar de Canal

Cesaria Evora's 'Mar de Canal' is a poignant ode to the ocean, reflecting the deep connection between the people of Cape Verde and the sea that surrounds their islands. The song's lyrics, sung in Cape Verdean Creole, evoke a sense of longing and respect for the ocean, which is both a source of sustenance and a powerful, unpredictable force. The repetition of the phrase 'Ó mar, ó mar, kezé ke N ta fazê-be?' (Oh sea, oh sea, what am I to do with you?) underscores the ambivalence and reverence the singer feels towards the ocean.

The ocean in 'Mar de Canal' is personified as a capricious entity that 'karanbolá-me nha kazamente' (disrupts my marriage), suggesting that the sea's unpredictable nature can have profound impacts on personal lives. This metaphor extends to the broader experience of Cape Verdeans, whose lives are inextricably linked to the ocean for their livelihood, travel, and connection to the wider world. The ocean's 'respingá na mi' (splashing on me) symbolizes the unavoidable influence of the sea on the singer's life, highlighting the intimate and sometimes tumultuous relationship between the people and the ocean.

In the final verses, the singer makes a heartfelt plea to the 'Mar, bendito' (blessed sea) to carry sustenance to the people of her homeland. This request reflects the communal spirit and the reliance on the ocean for survival and connection. Cesaria Evora, known as the 'Barefoot Diva,' often sang about the struggles and beauty of Cape Verdean life, and 'Mar de Canal' is a testament to her ability to convey deep emotional truths through her music. The song is a beautiful blend of melancholy and hope, capturing the essence of Cape Verdean culture and the enduring bond with the sea.