Etiópia

Edson Gomes' song 'Etiópia' is a poignant reflection on the brutal invasion of Ethiopia by Italian forces under Mussolini in the 1930s. The lyrics vividly describe the violent and unequal battle, highlighting the suffering of the Ethiopian people. The repeated references to Ethiopia being 'massacred,' 'brutalized,' and 'fuzilada' (shot) emphasize the sheer brutality and injustice of the invasion. Gomes uses these powerful images to evoke a sense of empathy and outrage in the listener, drawing attention to a historical event that is often overlooked or forgotten.

The song also critiques the way history is taught and remembered. Gomes points out that the atrocities committed during the invasion are often omitted from educational curricula, suggesting a deliberate attempt to whitewash history. He contrasts the portrayal of the invaders as 'sons of the good God' with the marginalized and demonized image of the oppressed, 'sons of the bad.' This dichotomy underscores the systemic bias and injustice that persist in how history is recorded and taught.

Through 'Etiópia,' Gomes not only commemorates the suffering of the Ethiopian people but also calls for a more honest and inclusive recounting of history. The song serves as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging and learning from past injustices to prevent their recurrence. By bringing this dark chapter of history to light, Gomes encourages listeners to question the narratives they have been taught and to seek out the truth for themselves.