Na Carreira

Chico Buarque's song "Na Carreira" delves into the transient and often tumultuous life of an artist. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the constant movement and emotional highs and lows that come with a life dedicated to performance. The song opens with the artist preparing for the next show, transforming themselves into a new persona, and stepping into the spotlight. This cycle of performing, falling in love with new places, and then having to leave before dawn captures the bittersweet nature of an artist's existence.

The second verse emphasizes the fleeting connections and the necessity of departure. The artist must leave quietly, almost like a thief in the night, erasing any traces of their presence. This reflects the inner conflict between the desire to stay and the compulsion to move on. The lyrics suggest that the soul of an artist is always in motion, never truly settling down, and always seeking the next destination. This perpetual journey is both a source of inspiration and a burden, as the artist leaves pieces of themselves behind in every place they visit.

In the final verse, Buarque explores the duality of the artist's life. The artist is both celebrated and vulnerable, receiving applause and adoration while also facing the loneliness and hardships of constant travel. The imagery of leaving one's skin on every stage and never saying goodbye underscores the sacrifices made in the pursuit of art. The song captures the essence of the artist's life as a continuous cycle of creation, performance, and departure, highlighting the emotional and physical toll it takes. Through poetic and evocative language, Buarque offers a poignant reflection on the nomadic and often solitary journey of an artist.