Hora da Decisão

Criolo's song 'Hora da Decisão' paints a vivid and stark picture of life in the favelas, the impoverished neighborhoods in Brazil. The lyrics repeatedly emphasize the phrase 'O tempo fechou na favela,' which translates to 'The weather closed in on the favela,' symbolizing the tense and dangerous atmosphere that pervades these areas. The imagery of 'fera engolindo fera' or 'beast swallowing beast' further underscores the brutal survival-of-the-fittest mentality that dominates the streets. Those who lack 'proceder,' or proper conduct and respect, are quickly consumed by the harsh environment.

The song delves into the theme of courage and intervention, questioning who will have the bravery to step in and make a difference when 'a falange do mal tá pronta'—the evil faction is ready, and peace has been forced to leave. This line highlights the pervasive influence of criminal elements and the difficulty of maintaining peace in such a volatile setting. The metaphor of a 'real game of cops and robbers' transforms the childhood game into a deadly reality, where the stakes are life and death.

Criolo also uses the metaphor of a soccer penalty kick to describe the critical decisions that must be made in these high-pressure situations. 'Penalidade não é loteria'—'Penalty is not a lottery'—suggests that these decisions are not left to chance but require skill, precision, and often, a heavy price. The repeated call for a 'toque de recolher' or 'curfew' to prevent chaos further illustrates the constant state of alert and the need for order amidst the disorder. Through 'Hora da Decisão,' Criolo provides a raw and unfiltered look at the complexities and dangers of favela life, urging listeners to understand and perhaps empathize with those living in such conditions.