Caxangá

Elis Regina's song 'Caxangá' delves deep into the struggles and aspirations of the working class. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the daily grind and the yearning for a better life. The opening lines, 'Sempre no coração / Haja o que houver / A fome de um dia poder morder a carne dessa mulher,' reflect a deep-seated hunger for change and improvement, symbolized by the desire to 'bite the flesh of this woman.' This metaphor suggests a longing for something more substantial and fulfilling in life, beyond mere survival.

The song contrasts the lives of the workers and the privileged, as seen in the lines, 'Veja bem meu patrão como pode ser bom / Você trabalharia no sol e eu tomando banho de mar.' Here, the worker imagines a role reversal where the boss toils under the sun while they enjoy the luxury of a sea bath. This stark contrast highlights the inequality and the dream of a more just and equitable world. The struggle against oppression is further emphasized with, 'Luto para viver / Vivo para morrer / Enquanto minha morte não vem / Eu vivo de brigar contra o rei,' where the fight for survival is a constant battle against the ruling powers.

The communal aspect of the working class is depicted around the fire, where stories and desires are shared openly, 'Em volta do fogo todo mundo abrindo o jogo / Com tudo que tem pra contar.' This scene represents solidarity and the collective experience of hardship and hope. However, it also warns that insincerity can lead to being 'burned,' indicating the importance of honesty and trust within the community. The song concludes with a return to the relentless cycle of work and exhaustion, 'Saio do trabalho e / Volto para casa e / Não lembro de canseira maior / Em tudo é o mesmo suor,' underscoring the unending nature of their toil and the pervasive fatigue that defines their existence.