Não Vadeia

Clementina de Jesus' song 'Não Vadeia' is a poignant reflection on the contradictions and costs of modern progress. The repeated refrain 'Não vadeia, Clementina / Fui feita pra vadiar' (Don't wander, Clementina / I was made to wander) sets the tone for a narrative that juxtaposes the simplicity and freedom of a wandering life with the complex and often detrimental impacts of technological and societal advancements. The act of 'vadiar' (wandering) symbolizes a return to a more natural, unburdened way of living, contrasting sharply with the modern world's chaos and confusion.

The lyrics delve into specific examples of progress, such as nuclear energy and space exploration, highlighting how these advancements are often celebrated while fundamental issues like hunger remain unresolved. 'Energia nuclear / O homem subiu à lua / É o que se ouve falar / Mas a fome continua' (Nuclear energy / Man went to the moon / That's what we hear / But hunger continues) underscores the disparity between technological achievements and social welfare. This critique is further emphasized with the line 'Um litro de gasolina / Por cem gramas de feijão' (A liter of gasoline / For a hundred grams of beans), illustrating the skewed priorities and economic imbalances brought about by progress.

Environmental degradation is another critical theme in the song. The loss of natural beauty and purity, symbolized by the absence of birdsong and clean air, is lamented as a 'price' paid for progress. 'Cadê o cantar dos passarinhos / Ar puro não encontro mais não / É o preço que o progresso / Paga com a poluição' (Where is the birdsong / I can't find clean air anymore / It's the price that progress / Pays with pollution) captures the environmental cost of industrialization. The song also critiques societal values, pointing out that despite civilization's advancements, many educated individuals ('diplomados') can still exhibit uncivilized behavior, suggesting that true progress should be measured by moral and ethical standards rather than technological prowess.