Pivete

Chico Buarque's song "Pivete" paints a vivid picture of the life of a young street kid in Rio de Janeiro. The term 'pivete' is a colloquial Brazilian Portuguese word for a street child, often involved in petty crimes and hustling to survive. The song's narrative follows the daily struggles and hustles of this young boy, who sells chewing gum at traffic lights, cleans car windows, and occasionally resorts to more desperate measures like wielding a knife or breaking into cars. The use of various names like Pelé, Mané, and Emersão highlights the fluid and often precarious identity of these children, who adapt to their harsh environment in any way they can.

The lyrics are rich with cultural references to Rio de Janeiro's geography, mentioning places like Carioca, Frei Caneca, Tijuca, and Borel. These locations are not just random names but represent different facets of the city, from bustling commercial areas to impoverished neighborhoods. The song captures the essence of urban survival, where the pivete navigates through these areas, each with its own set of challenges and opportunities. The recurring phrases 'olerê' and 'olará' add a rhythmic, almost chant-like quality to the song, emphasizing the cyclical nature of the pivete's life.

Chico Buarque, known for his socially conscious lyrics and deep empathy for marginalized communities, uses "Pivete" to shed light on the often overlooked lives of street children. The song is a poignant commentary on social inequality and the harsh realities faced by the most vulnerable members of society. Through its detailed storytelling and evocative imagery, "Pivete" invites listeners to reflect on the systemic issues that perpetuate poverty and crime, urging a deeper understanding and compassion for those living on the fringes of society.