Fim de Carnaval

“Fim de Carnaval” by Combinado Silva Só is a poignant reflection on the end of the vibrant and joyous Carnival season. The song captures the bittersweet transition from the exuberance of the festivities back to the mundane realities of everyday life. The opening lines, “Pode guardar os panos / Reencontrar os desenganos,” suggest putting away the costumes and facing the disappointments that were momentarily forgotten during the celebration. The mention of the eye that once sparkled in the parade banner now returning to reality underscores the stark contrast between the fleeting joy of Carnival and the return to normalcy.

The lyrics continue to evoke a sense of melancholy with the line, “Já é 4° feira / E a lenha toda se queimou,” indicating that it is now Wednesday, and all the firewood has been burned. This metaphor signifies the end of the festivities and the exhaustion of the energy and excitement that fueled them. The song encourages listeners to save their smiles for the next year, acknowledging that both individuals and the community (“o morro”) are already looking forward to the next Carnival. This anticipation highlights the cyclical nature of joy and celebration in the face of everyday struggles.

In the final verses, the song offers a glimmer of hope and resilience. “Levante a bandeira do seu dia-a-dia / Reerga o que sobrou da alegria” suggests raising the flag of daily life and rebuilding what remains of the joy experienced during Carnival. This call to carry forward the spirit of celebration into everyday life is a reminder of the enduring human capacity for joy and renewal, even after the most vibrant moments have passed. The song beautifully encapsulates the essence of Carnival as a temporary escape and a source of hope for the future.