Memória e Fado

Egberto Gismonti's song "Memória e Fado" is a poignant exploration of memory, time, and the haunting nature of past experiences. The lyrics delve into the ephemeral nature of dreams and the inevitable confrontation with reality as day breaks. The opening lines, "Por que o sonho terminava / Quando o dia amanhecia," reflect a sense of loss and the fleeting nature of dreams, which dissolve with the dawn. This transition from night to day symbolizes the harsh intrusion of reality into the sanctuary of dreams, bringing with it a sense of fear and unease, as captured in the line, "Vinha um medo desse gosto morto do passado."

The song's title, "Memória e Fado," intertwines the concepts of memory and fate, suggesting that our past experiences shape our destiny. The reference to "fado," a traditional Portuguese genre known for its melancholic and soulful nature, underscores the song's themes of longing and sorrow. Gismonti weaves a tapestry of emotions, using metaphors like the "rosário de silêncio" to depict the weight of unspoken words and unresolved feelings. The imagery of a "rosary of silence" evokes a sense of penance and contemplation, as the protagonist grapples with the shadows of angels who have departed, never to return.

The song also touches on the theme of solitude, as the protagonist finds themselves trapped in the "abismo desse quarto," a metaphorical abyss of their room. This space becomes a symbol of isolation and introspection, where the bitterness of loneliness is keenly felt. The closing lines, "E a minha boca fechada com medo das sombras desses anjos / Que se foram e não voltam nunca mais," highlight the fear of confronting these lingering memories and the finality of loss. Gismonti's evocative lyrics and haunting melodies create a powerful narrative that resonates with the listener, inviting them to reflect on their own experiences of memory, fate, and solitude.