Mariana, Mariana
Edu Lobo
The Haunting Absence of Mariana
Edu Lobo's song 'Mariana, Mariana' is a poignant exploration of longing and loss. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman named Mariana, whose absence is deeply felt by the narrator. The repeated questioning of 'cadê' (where is) highlights the narrator's search for Mariana's physical and emotional presence. Her white skirt, floral dress, sad smile, beige stockings, and patent leather shoes are all symbols of her unique identity, now missing. The narrator's lamentation over her 'zangados' (angry eyes) that once censured him for things he didn't do adds a layer of complexity to their relationship, suggesting unresolved conflicts and misunderstandings.
The second verse delves deeper into the emotional turmoil caused by Mariana's absence. The narrator misses her 'corpo moreno' (brown body) that once disrupted his peace, her hands, her fear, her secrets, and the nights they spent together. These elements signify the intimate and intricate bond they shared, now shattered. The mention of 'noites claras' (clear nights) where he got entangled suggests moments of vulnerability and connection that are now just memories. The use of sensory details like touch and sight makes the loss more palpable and real.
In the final verse, the narrator seeks permission to 'desfaca' (undo) Mariana's braids and grace, which he kept to deceive himself. This act symbolizes his attempt to let go of the past and move on, yet he cannot leave without calling out to her one last time. The repetition of 'Mariana, Mariana' at the end underscores the depth of his yearning and the void her absence has created. Edu Lobo's melancholic melody and evocative lyrics capture the essence of a love lost and the enduring impact it leaves on the heart.