Bicharia

Chico Buarque's song 'Bicharia' uses the metaphor of animals to critique societal structures and human behavior. The playful and repetitive sounds of animals—'Au, au, au,' 'Miau, maiu, miau,' and 'Cocorocó'—set a seemingly light-hearted tone, but the lyrics delve into deeper social commentary. The animals in the song are depicted as patient and hardworking, yet they are not fools. This mirrors the working class, who are often underestimated and mistreated by those in power.

The song describes a country where animals are treated like beasts, a clear metaphor for a society where the working class is exploited. The 'barão espertalhão' (clever baron) represents the elite who live comfortably without working, highlighting the social inequality that persists. The repetition of 'Era uma vez' (Once upon a time) and 'E é ainda' (And still is) emphasizes that these issues are ongoing, not just relics of the past.

As the song progresses, it warns that when pushed too far, these 'animals'—or the working class—can become ferocious. The line 'Quando o homem exagera, bicho vira fera' (When man exaggerates, the animal becomes a beast) serves as a cautionary note about the potential for rebellion and upheaval. The imagery of a 'saco de gatos' (bag of cats) and the phrase 'eu quero ver quem paga o pato' (I want to see who pays the duck) suggest chaos and retribution, indicating that the oppressed will eventually fight back against their oppressors.

Through 'Bicharia,' Chico Buarque masterfully uses animal metaphors to critique social injustice and highlight the resilience and potential power of the working class. The song is a reminder of the enduring nature of social struggles and the inevitable consequences of exploitation.