A Volta do Malandro

Chico Buarque's song "A Volta do Malandro" paints a vivid picture of the return of a quintessential Brazilian character, the 'malandro.' This figure, often romanticized in Brazilian culture, is a street-smart rogue who navigates the complexities of urban life with charm and cunning. The lyrics describe the malandro's reappearance in the public square, moving delicately as if treading on the hearts that have been broken in the cabarets. This imagery suggests a life lived on the edge, where love and violence intermingle, and survival depends on one's ability to adapt and charm.

The malandro's world is one of contrasts and contradictions. He exists between goddesses and slaps, dice games and military officers, art movements (parangolés) and bosses. This duality highlights the malandro's ability to navigate different social spheres, from the underworld to the upper echelons of society. His sideways walk ('anda assim de viés') symbolizes his non-conformity and his skill in maneuvering through life's challenges without being pinned down by any single identity or role.

The song also emphasizes the malandro's patience and strategic thinking. He lets the tide sway and the dust settle, waiting for the right moment to act. The public square transforms into a grand ballroom, where the malandro, the 'barão da ralé' (baron of the rabble), reigns supreme. This title underscores his paradoxical status: though he is part of the marginalized 'ralé,' he commands respect and admiration within his domain. Chico Buarque's lyrics celebrate the malandro's resilience, adaptability, and enduring allure, making him a timeless symbol of survival and charm in Brazilian culture.