Tiê

Dona Ivone Lara's song 'Tiê' is a poignant exploration of nostalgia, love, and heartache, wrapped in the metaphor of a cherished bird. The song opens with a repetitive call to the 'tiê,' a bird that symbolizes inspiration and childhood memories for the narrator. This bird, which once brought joy and creativity, now serves as a reminder of past emotions and experiences. The repetition of 'Oxá' adds a rhythmic and almost ritualistic quality to the song, emphasizing the deep connection the narrator feels with this bird and the memories it represents.

The lyrics delve into the emotional significance of the 'tiê,' describing it as a symbol of affection, love, and passion. However, the bird is also described as 'ingrato,' or ungrateful, for having 'desprezou meu coração'—disregarded the narrator's heart. This shift from fond memories to feelings of betrayal and neglect highlights the complex nature of relationships and the pain that can accompany cherished memories. The bird, once a source of inspiration, now embodies the narrator's unfulfilled desires and emotional wounds.

The song also touches on the theme of pursuit and longing. The narrator compares their desire to chase after the 'tiê' to a star chasing the moon, illustrating a sense of relentless pursuit and unattainable goals. This imagery underscores the narrator's deep yearning and the elusive nature of their happiness. The advice from the narrator's grandmother, warning about the bird's bad habits, adds a layer of wisdom and caution, suggesting that sometimes the things we cherish most can also bring us pain. Through 'Tiê,' Dona Ivone Lara masterfully captures the bittersweet essence of love and memory, blending personal reflection with universal themes of longing and heartache.