Vida de Empreguete
Cheias de Charme (Novela)
Dreams and Struggles of a Domestic Worker
The song 'Vida de Empreguete' by Cheias de Charme (Novela) paints a vivid picture of the daily life and aspirations of a domestic worker. The lyrics describe the routine of waking up early, enduring long commutes, and performing physically demanding tasks like cleaning and polishing floors. The protagonist expresses a desire for rest and comfort, symbolized by the longing for her sofa after a long day of work. This reflects the exhaustion and relentless nature of her job.
The song also highlights the social dynamics and inequalities faced by domestic workers. The protagonist mentions the critical and often unfair treatment from her employer, who finds faults even where there are none. This criticism is contrasted with the protagonist's wish to see her employer in her shoes, imagining the humor and satisfaction she would derive from such a role reversal. This sentiment underscores the lack of appreciation and understanding from those in higher social positions.
Despite the hardships, the song carries a tone of resilience and hope. The protagonist dreams of a better future, where she can afford luxuries like an apartment and vacations with her partner. The repeated chorus about living the life of a 'empreguete' (a playful term for a domestic worker) and the weekend transformation into a more glamorous version of herself, wearing high heels, symbolizes her aspirations and the duality of her existence. This duality reflects the common dream among many workers of transcending their current circumstances and achieving a more comfortable and respected social status.