Noticia de Jornal

Chico Buarque's song 'Noticia de Jornal' delves into the often overlooked and deeply personal struggles of individuals, particularly focusing on the character Joana. The song begins with a stark report of Joana's suicide attempt in a humble shack, driven by her troubled relationship with a man named João. This opening sets the stage for a narrative that critiques the superficiality of news reports and their failure to capture the true essence of human suffering.

As the song progresses, it reveals that after receiving medical attention, Joana returns to a home that no longer exists. This metaphorical statement underscores the irreversible changes in her life and the emotional desolation she faces. The lyrics poignantly describe Joana as 'mais uma mulata triste que errou' (another sad mulatta who made a mistake), highlighting societal prejudices and the marginalization of women of color. The repetition of the word 'errou' (made a mistake) emphasizes the multiple layers of her perceived failures— in dosage, in love, and in choosing João.

The song's most powerful message lies in its closing lines, where Buarque laments that 'a dor da gente não sai no jornal' (our pain doesn't make it to the newspaper). This line serves as a critique of media's inability to convey the true depth of personal anguish and the isolation felt by those who suffer. It calls attention to the often invisible struggles of individuals, particularly those from marginalized communities, whose stories are reduced to mere headlines without understanding the profound emotional and social contexts behind them.