Água de Lua
Djavan
The Dance of Life and Death in Djavan's 'Água de Lua'
Djavan's song 'Água de Lua' is a poetic exploration of life, death, and the natural world. The lyrics are rich with vivid imagery and metaphors that paint a picture of a harsh yet beautiful environment. The opening lines, 'Faca de ponta, peixeira / Pau na moleira, espingarda,' evoke a sense of danger and violence, suggesting a world where survival is a constant struggle. The mention of weapons like knives and shotguns highlights the ever-present threat of death, which is further emphasized by the recurring line, 'A morte um dia há de chegar' (Death will come one day).
The song also delves into the beauty of nature, contrasting the violence with serene images like 'Prata boiando nas águas do luar' (Silver floating in the moonlit waters). This juxtaposition creates a sense of balance, suggesting that life is a mix of both beauty and brutality. The 'clarão da espada afiada' (flash of the sharp sword) serves as a metaphor for the sudden and inevitable nature of death, cutting through the tranquility of life.
In the final stanza, Djavan reflects on his upbringing, 'Eu me criei no molhado / Areia e pedras do lado / Berço de uma sereia' (I was raised in the wet / Sand and stones beside / Cradle of a mermaid). This personal touch adds depth to the song, grounding its abstract themes in the artist's own experiences. The reference to a mermaid's cradle suggests a mystical connection to the sea, further enriching the song's exploration of life and death. Djavan's unique blend of poetic lyrics and evocative imagery makes 'Água de Lua' a compelling meditation on the human condition.