Vai Passar

Chico Buarque's 'Vai Passar' is a poignant reflection on the enduring spirit of Brazilian culture, particularly through the lens of its most vibrant celebration, Carnival. The song's title, which translates to 'It Will Pass,' suggests a theme of transience and the idea that hardships are temporary, while the joy and resilience of the people endure.

The lyrics evoke the rich history of samba, a musical genre that is a cornerstone of Brazilian identity, and its ability to survive and thrive despite the country's turbulent past. Buarque references the 'immortal sambas' that have been performed on the streets and the ancestors who danced before, connecting the present to a powerful legacy. The song also touches on darker periods of Brazilian history, such as the military dictatorship, hinting at the suffering and 'unhappy pages' that have marked the nation's journey. Yet, it celebrates the fact that even during those times, Brazilians found a way to express joy through Carnival, a 'fleeting happiness' that served as a temporary escape from reality.

The latter part of the song is more satirical, with a nod to the 'hungry barons' and 'pint-sized Napoleons'—likely a critique of the political and social elite. The 'sanatorium general's standard' is a metaphor for the madness of society, yet it is paraded with the same fervor as any other group during Carnival. Buarque's lyrics are a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of cultural expression to provide solace, unity, and hope in the face of adversity.