Luiza

Chico Buarque's song 'Luiza' is a poignant exploration of unrequited love and longing. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a romantic night, with the moon described as 'imensa e amarela' (immense and yellow) floating in the sky. This celestial imagery sets the stage for a tale of deep emotional yearning. The narrator, a 'pobre amador' (poor amateur) and 'aprendiz do teu amor' (apprentice of your love), is consumed by his feelings for Luiza, a woman who seems to be both his muse and his tormentor. The use of metaphors like 'espada nua' (naked sword) and 'rosa louca' (crazy rose) adds layers of intensity and passion to the narrative.

The song's structure is a dialogue between the narrator and Luiza, where he pleads for her attention and affection. He asks her to 'me exorciza' (exorcise me) and 'me dá tua mão' (give me your hand), indicating his desperate need for her to acknowledge his love. The imagery of a heart hidden beneath snow suggests a cold, unresponsive exterior that the narrator believes hides a warm, beating heart. This duality reflects the complexity of human emotions and the often painful nature of love.

Chico Buarque, known for his poetic and socially conscious lyrics, uses 'Luiza' to delve into the personal realm of love and loss. The song's melancholic tone is amplified by its slow, melodic composition, which mirrors the narrator's sorrow and longing. The final lines, where he speaks of the 'sete mil amores' (seven thousand loves) he has saved for Luiza, encapsulate the depth of his feelings and the futility of his unreciprocated love. 'Luiza' is a masterful blend of lyrical beauty and emotional depth, showcasing Buarque's ability to capture the essence of human experience in his music.