Saudade
Eduardo Costa
The Ache of Longing: Eduardo Costa's 'Saudade'
Eduardo Costa's song 'Saudade' delves into the deep emotions associated with longing and remembrance. The lyrics speak to a universal human experience: the pain of missing someone who was once a significant part of one's life. The word 'saudade' itself is a Portuguese term that has no direct translation in English, often described as a deep emotional state of nostalgic or profound melancholic longing for an absent something or someone that one loves.
In the song, the narrator reflects on a past relationship, acknowledging that it has been a long time since they were together, to the point where the memories are starting to fade. The heart and mind are portrayed as disconnected; the heart is unable to keep track of time, while the mind feels empty. Yet, the narrator vividly recalls their first encounter, suggesting that some moments are indelibly etched in our memories. The metaphor of a diary page represents the past relationship, suggesting that it was a chapter in the narrator's life that was significant but ultimately removed, much like a page torn out of a diary.
The recurring theme of wanting to remove this 'page' from their life indicates a desire to move on from the past, despite the lingering feelings of hope and sadness. The repetition of 'da minha vida' (from my life) at the end emphasizes the struggle to let go of the past and the pain of saudade that continues to haunt the narrator. Eduardo Costa, known for his romantic and sertanejo music, captures the essence of this bittersweet longing with a melody that complements the emotive lyrics.