Cálice (feat. Milton Nascimento)

The song 'Cálice' by Chico Buarque, featuring Milton Nascimento, is a powerful protest song from Brazil, written during the period of military dictatorship that lasted from 1964 to 1985. The title 'Cálice' itself is a play on words, as it sounds like 'Cale-se', which means 'Shut up' in Portuguese, reflecting the censorship and repression of the time. The repeated plea, 'Pai, afasta de mim esse cálice' ('Father, take this cup away from me'), alludes to Jesus Christ's prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, symbolizing a request to avoid a destiny of suffering. In the context of the song, it represents the artist's desire to escape the oppressive reality of the dictatorship.

The lyrics poetically describe the struggle of living under a repressive regime, using metaphors such as 'vinho tinto de sangue' ('wine red with blood') to evoke the violence and sacrifices of the era. The song speaks to the pain of silenced voices ('Mesmo calada a boca, resta o peito') and the difficulty of expressing dissent ('Como é difícil, pai, abrir a porta / Essa palavra presa na garganta'). It captures the sense of suffocation felt by those who could not speak out against the injustices they witnessed.

Chico Buarque is known for his clever use of language to critique social and political issues. 'Cálice' is a testament to his artistry and courage, as it was composed during a time when such expressions could lead to severe consequences. The song remains a poignant reminder of the importance of freedom of speech and the power of music as a form of resistance. It is not just a historical document but a timeless call to action against oppression and censorship.