Bem Querer

Chico Buarque's song 'Bem Querer' delves into the complexities and dualities of love, exploring both its tender and tumultuous aspects. The lyrics are rich with metaphors and vivid imagery, painting a picture of a love that is both passionate and perilous. The repetition of phrases and the use of contrasting emotions highlight the unpredictable nature of romantic relationships.

In the first verse, the singer expresses a certainty that their beloved will follow them through all thresholds, symbolizing a deep, almost obsessive connection. This is followed by a declaration that even when lies are told about never saying goodbye, there will be immoral oaths, suggesting a love that is willing to deceive to maintain its bond. The use of 'juras imorais' (immoral oaths) hints at the darker, more manipulative side of love.

As the song progresses, the lyrics describe love as fleeting ('o amor é coisa tão fugaz'), yet the response is a mortal grip, indicating a desperate attempt to hold onto something ephemeral. The juxtaposition of calmness and fury in the subsequent verses further emphasizes the duality of love. The calmness of couples contrasts sharply with the animalistic fury, illustrating how love can oscillate between serenity and violence. The final verse, where the beloved is wished peaceful dreams while the singer metaphorically extinguishes the light and opens the gas, suggests a sinister undertone, perhaps alluding to the destructive potential of love when it becomes all-consuming.

Chico Buarque, known for his poetic and often politically charged lyrics, uses 'Bem Querer' to explore the multifaceted nature of love. The song's structure and repetition create a hypnotic effect, drawing the listener into the emotional turbulence described. Buarque's ability to blend beauty with darkness in his music makes 'Bem Querer' a compelling exploration of the human heart's complexities.