A Saudade Me Mata

Ederaldo Gentil's song 'A Saudade Me Mata' is a poignant exploration of the emotional toll that distance and longing can take on a person. The recurring lines 'É que a saudade me mata, A distancia maltrata' (Longing kills me, Distance mistreats) encapsulate the core sentiment of the song. 'Saudade' is a Portuguese word that conveys a deep emotional state of nostalgic longing for something or someone that one loves but is absent. This word is central to the song's theme, highlighting the pain and suffering caused by separation.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a specific moment in time, 'Doze de Maio chuvoso de setenta e tres' (Rainy May 12th of 1973), which adds a personal and historical context to the narrative. The singer writes to someone, possibly a loved one, sharing his experiences and the emotional void he feels. The mention of 'Banana D'agua é nanica, tangerina é mexerica' (Water banana is small, tangerine is mandarin) and 'Sinto falta do luar' (I miss the moonlight) brings a touch of everyday life and nostalgia, emphasizing the small yet significant details that one misses when away from home.

The song also touches on the theme of hope and resilience. Despite the cold and emptiness he feels upon arrival, the singer holds onto 'a mesma esperança' (the same hope) and 'a minha ilusão' (my illusion), indicating a sense of perseverance. The closing lines, 'carnaval eu chego lá' (I'll be there for Carnival), suggest a future reunion and a return to joy, symbolized by the festive and vibrant celebration of Carnival. This blend of melancholy and hope makes 'A Saudade Me Mata' a deeply relatable and emotionally rich song.