A Voz do Dono e o Dono da Voz

Chico Buarque's song "A Voz do Dono e o Dono da Voz" delves into the complex relationship between control and freedom, using the metaphor of a voice and its owner to explore themes of possession, autonomy, and the struggle for self-expression. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a voice that initially belongs to its master, much like a couple bound by mutual dependence and conflict. This relationship is likened to a marriage, complete with its ups and downs, symbolized by the 'acetate wedding,' a nod to the old vinyl records that capture and preserve voices.

As the song progresses, the voice grows weary of its confinement, dreaming of liberation and new experiences. This yearning for freedom is depicted through the voice's desire to escape the 'knots' of its current existence and find solace in another's throat. The voice's infidelity and subsequent search for a new master highlight the tension between the desire for autonomy and the comfort of familiar constraints. The voice's journey is one of self-discovery, seeking to 'spin' and 'forget' its past, even if it means facing new challenges and potential exploitation.

The climax of the song reveals the owner's reaction to the voice's betrayal. The owner, losing control and descending into despair, declares that if the voice cannot be his, it shall belong to no one. This possessive declaration underscores the toxic nature of their relationship, where control is prioritized over mutual well-being. The repeated refrain, "What is good for the owner is good for the voice," serves as a bitter reminder of the imbalance of power and the struggle for self-determination. Through this poignant narrative, Chico Buarque masterfully captures the essence of human relationships, the quest for freedom, and the inevitable conflicts that arise from the desire to control and be controlled.