Borandá

Edu Lobo's song 'Borandá' is a poignant reflection on the struggles and resilience of those facing harsh environmental and social conditions. The word 'borandá' itself is a colloquial term derived from 'vamos embora,' meaning 'let's go' or 'let's leave.' This sets the tone for the song, which speaks to the necessity of leaving one's homeland due to the unyielding hardships faced there. The repeated lines 'Que a terra já secou, borandá' and 'Que a chuva não chegou, borandá' highlight the dire situation of drought and the absence of rain, symbolizing a broader sense of abandonment and despair.

The lyrics also delve into the spiritual and emotional toll of these hardships. The narrator mentions making 'more than a thousand promises' and praying numerous prayers, yet feeling unheard by God. This sense of spiritual desolation adds another layer to the song, emphasizing the feeling of being forsaken not just by the land but also by a higher power. The repetition of 'Deve ser que eu rezo baixo, pois meu Deus não ouve não' underscores this sentiment of hopelessness and the futility of their efforts.

Despite the overwhelming sense of despair, there is a glimmer of hope and resilience in the song. The narrator decides to leave, albeit with a heavy heart, as indicated by 'Vou me embora, vou chorando, vou me lembrando do meu lugar.' This departure is not just a physical journey but also an emotional one, filled with memories and a longing for a better future. The line 'Que é melhor partir lembrando que ver tudo piorar' suggests that leaving with memories of better times is preferable to staying and witnessing further deterioration. This bittersweet resolution encapsulates the human spirit's enduring hope and the difficult choices faced in the pursuit of a better life.