Bom Conselho

The song 'Bom Conselho' by Chico Buarque, a renowned Brazilian artist known for his poignant lyrics and involvement in the cultural and political scene of Brazil, offers a rich tapestry of advice wrapped in metaphor and irony. The title itself, which translates to 'Good Advice,' sets the tone for a song that challenges conventional wisdom and encourages active, perhaps rebellious, engagement with life.

The lyrics begin with an ironic suggestion that waiting passively for one's problems to resolve is futile ('Está provado, quem espera nunca alcança' translates to 'It's proven, those who wait never achieve'). This introduces a theme of proactivity and skepticism towards traditional paths to success or happiness. Chico Buarque uses a conversational tone to invite the listener to break away from comfort zones ('Deixe esse regaço'), suggesting that real experiences and perhaps real dangers ('Brinque com meu fogo') are preferable to complacency.

The recurring lines about chasing time and sowing the wind in his city, culminating in the declaration of drinking the storm ('Vou pra rua e bebo a tempestade'), symbolize a desire to fully experience life's challenges and complexities. This metaphor of embracing the storm suggests a philosophy of facing life head-on, acknowledging its unpredictability and difficulties, yet choosing to engage with it fully. Through this song, Chico Buarque encapsulates a spirit of defiance and a call to action, urging listeners to think critically and act boldly.