Maria, Maria

Ellen Oléria's song 'Maria, Maria' is a powerful tribute to the resilience and strength of women, particularly those who face adversity with grace and determination. The name 'Maria' is symbolic, representing countless women who endure hardships yet continue to live and love with an unyielding spirit. The lyrics highlight the duality of their existence, where joy and sorrow coexist, and where survival often means enduring rather than truly living.

The song's opening lines describe Maria as possessing a certain magic and strength that serves as a warning or reminder to others. This 'magic' is not just a mystical quality but a testament to the inner power and resilience that women like Maria embody. They deserve to live and love just like anyone else on the planet, yet their lives are often marked by struggle and perseverance.

Oléria emphasizes the need for strength, courage, and determination, qualities that are essential for those who bear the 'mark' of Maria. This mark is both literal and metaphorical, representing the physical and emotional scars of their experiences. Despite the pain, these women possess an 'estranha mania de ter fé na vida'—a strange habit of having faith in life. This faith is what keeps them going, blending pain with joy and turning survival into an act of defiance and hope.

The song is a celebration of the indomitable spirit of women who, despite their suffering, continue to dream and find beauty in life. It calls for recognition of their struggles and a deeper appreciation of their strength and resilience.