A Mulher de Cada Porto

Chico Buarque's song 'A Mulher de Cada Porto' delves into the complexities of love and commitment through a maritime metaphor. The lyrics are a dialogue between two lovers, each expressing their struggles with the idea of staying faithful and the inevitable pull of new romances in different ports. The man wishes he could stay with his love but acknowledges the call of the sea and the allure of new loves in different ports. He admits that his life is far from a 'bed of roses,' and despite his promises to return, the transient nature of his existence makes it difficult.

The woman, on the other hand, mirrors his sentiments but from a different perspective. She wishes she could tie her love down for almost a month but recognizes the reality of her situation. If she were to gather all her loves in one port, the bay would overflow with naval forces, symbolizing the overwhelming nature of her romantic entanglements. She, too, acknowledges that her life is not a 'bed of roses' and advises her lover to continue his journey in peace, suggesting a mutual understanding of their complicated lives.

The song uses the sea and ports as metaphors for the fluidity and impermanence of love. The waves and stones of the quay symbolize the constant movement and the obstacles that prevent the lovers from staying together. The dialogue format adds a layer of intimacy and realism, making the listener feel like a part of their conversation. Chico Buarque's poetic lyrics and the melancholic tone of the song capture the bittersweet nature of love that is both passionate and fleeting.