Cantiga Da Terra

Dulce Pontes' 'Cantiga Da Terra' is a lyrical homage to the bounties of the earth and the renewal that comes with the arrival of spring. The song opens with a desire to witness what the earth will provide at the break of dawn, listing various plants and fruits such as 'poejo' (pennyroyal), 'milho' (corn), 'araçá' (guava), 'videira' (vine), and 'maçã' (apple). This imagery evokes a sense of anticipation and gratitude for nature's gifts, highlighting the connection between humans and the land they cultivate.

The second verse introduces a plea to the 'mãe de água' (mother of water) and 'mãe de chuvas mil' (mother of a thousand rains), expressing a desire to move away from the heavy rains and instead embrace the light of April. This shift from rain to sunlight symbolizes a transition from hardship to joy, further emphasized by the mention of 'folia no terreiro' (revelry in the yard), suggesting a celebration of life and community.

In the final verses, the singer speaks of harvesting 'inhames' (yams) and 'limões' (lemons), and singing 'charambas' (traditional songs) and other melodies to be close to a loved one. The act of singing and dancing to the rhythm of the drum ('compasso do tambor') reflects a deep cultural tradition and a sense of unity with both the earth and fellow humans. The song's overall theme is one of renewal, gratitude, and the joy of living in harmony with nature, celebrating the cyclical patterns of life and the earth's generosity.