Aprendiz
Criolo
The Art of Letting Go: Criolo's 'Aprendiz'
Criolo's song 'Aprendiz' delves into the complexities of love, self-awareness, and the painful yet liberating process of letting go. The lyrics reflect a journey of emotional growth and the realization that sometimes, the best way to love someone is to let them go. Criolo, a Brazilian artist known for his poignant and socially conscious lyrics, uses this song to explore the themes of solitude, self-respect, and the bittersweet nature of relationships.
The song opens with a desire for mutual well-being, but with a twist: the narrator wishes happiness for their partner with someone else. This sentiment is rooted in the narrator's newfound ability to say 'no,' a powerful declaration of self-respect and emotional maturity. The repeated mention of 'solidão a dois' (solitude for two) highlights the paradox of feeling lonely even when in a relationship, a situation that many can relate to. The narrator acknowledges the emotional toll of such a relationship and decides to break free from it.
Criolo's lyrics also touch on the societal expectations of gender roles in relationships. The line 'quantas vezes a mulher não quer ser o mocinho' (how many times does the woman not want to be the hero) challenges traditional narratives and emphasizes the importance of individual identity within a relationship. The repeated assertion that 'você não é de ninguém' (you belong to no one) underscores the theme of personal freedom and the rejection of possessiveness. The song concludes with a poignant reflection on past mistakes and the realization that returning to the relationship would only bring more suffering.
'Aprendiz' is a powerful exploration of love, loss, and the journey towards self-discovery. Criolo's heartfelt lyrics and emotive delivery make this song a poignant reminder of the importance of self-respect and the courage it takes to let go.