Contado Ninguém Acredita
Deolinda
The Unbelievable Beauty in the Procession
Deolinda's song "Contado Ninguém Acredita" is a playful and ironic exploration of beauty, admiration, and the human desire for validation. The lyrics describe a woman who participates in a religious procession, where she is perceived as the most beautiful among the attendees. The repeated phrase "Ai contado ninguém acredita!" (Oh, no one would believe it!) underscores the incredulity of her beauty and the attention she garners.
The song uses religious imagery and metaphors to highlight the protagonist's allure. She is compared to saints and even the Virgin Mary, suggesting a near-divine level of admiration from the crowd. Despite this, she remains humble, expressing confusion over the source of her appeal, whether it's her painted nails or the light that illuminates her. This humility is juxtaposed with the irony that, despite being idolized by many, she is not worshipped by the one she admires the most.
Deolinda's musical style, often characterized by its blend of traditional Portuguese fado with contemporary elements, adds a layer of cultural richness to the song. The lyrics reflect a common theme in fado music: the bittersweet nature of love and admiration. The protagonist's lament that she is not idolized by her true object of affection adds a poignant twist to the otherwise light-hearted and humorous narrative. This song captures the essence of human vanity and the often-unfulfilled desire for reciprocal admiration, wrapped in a culturally resonant and melodically engaging package.