Hino de Duran

Chico Buarque's song "Hino de Duran" is a powerful critique of the pervasive surveillance and control exerted by authorities over individuals. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a society where every action, word, and thought is monitored and judged by an omnipresent law. The song opens with a warning about the dangers of speaking subtly or engaging in secretive behavior, as the law is always listening, even within the confines of one's own home. This sets the tone for a narrative that explores the oppressive nature of a system that leaves no room for privacy or dissent.

The song continues to describe various scenarios where individuals are scrutinized and punished for their actions. Whether it's carrying contraband, frequenting shady places, or plotting revolutions, the law is depicted as an ever-watchful entity with advanced tools like X-ray vision and the keen sense of a Doberman. This imagery highlights the invasive and relentless nature of surveillance, suggesting that no one is safe from the prying eyes of authority. The mention of the law's "arms of a stevedore" further emphasizes the brute force and physical power used to subdue and control those who dare to defy the system.

In the final verses, Buarque delves into the societal rejection and dehumanization of those deemed undesirable or dangerous. The law not only punishes but also ostracizes and destroys individuals, likening them to tumors that must be excised. The reference to Dr. Eiras and the delegate arriving to take the offender away underscores the inevitability of capture and the futility of resistance. Through "Hino de Duran," Chico Buarque delivers a poignant and chilling commentary on the mechanisms of control and the loss of personal freedom in a society dominated by surveillance and authoritarianism.