Volta Por Cima
Elza Soares
Resilience and Redemption in Elza Soares' 'Volta Por Cima'
Elza Soares' song 'Volta Por Cima' is a powerful anthem of resilience and self-recovery. The lyrics begin with the singer openly admitting to having cried and not hiding her tears. This vulnerability is significant, as it sets the stage for the song's central theme: overcoming adversity. The line 'Pena de mim não precisava' (I didn't need pity) underscores the singer's desire for strength and self-reliance rather than sympathy from others.
The song continues to highlight the universality of suffering, suggesting that anyone in her position would have cried. However, the true message lies in the singer's ability to 'dar a volta por cima' (turn things around). This phrase is a powerful metaphor for resilience, indicating that despite the hardships, she has managed to rise above them. The challenge is thrown to the listener with 'Quero ver quem dava' (I want to see who could do it), emphasizing that not everyone has the strength to overcome such difficulties.
The latter part of the song shifts focus to a broader perspective on moral strength and dignity. The lyrics 'Um homem de moral / Não fica no chão' (A man of morals doesn't stay down) and 'Reconhece a queda / Mas não desanima' (Recognizes the fall but doesn't get discouraged) serve as a universal call to action. The song concludes with the empowering message to 'Levanta, sacode a poeira / E dá a volta por cima!' (Get up, shake off the dust, and turn things around), encapsulating the essence of resilience and the human spirit's capacity for renewal.