Bastidores

Chico Buarque's song 'Bastidores' delves into the emotional turmoil and vulnerability of a performer dealing with heartbreak. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who is deeply affected by a romantic relationship that has ended. The song begins with the protagonist crying to the point of self-pity and seeking solace in a dressing room, resorting to a mix of substances to cope with the pain. This setting behind the scenes, or 'bastidores,' serves as a metaphor for the hidden emotional struggles that contrast with the public persona of a performer.

The protagonist's emotional state is further highlighted by their actions of dressing up and applying makeup, symbolizing the facade they must maintain despite their inner turmoil. The act of singing, described as cruel, underscores the difficulty of performing while grappling with personal grief. The illusion of seeing the former lover mocking them in the audience adds to the sense of despair and humiliation. This moment of illusion reflects the lingering presence of the lost love and the pain it continues to inflict.

Despite the emotional agony, the protagonist delivers a performance that earns standing ovations from the audience. However, the applause and calls for an encore ('bis') do not bring solace. Instead, the protagonist rushes back home, hoping to confirm that the lover will never return. The repeated cycle of singing and returning home emphasizes the ongoing struggle between the public and private self. The song ends with the protagonist crying once more, encapsulating the relentless sorrow and the facade they must uphold. 'Bastidores' poignantly captures the dichotomy of a performer's life, where the show must go on despite the heartache behind the scenes.