Não Recomendado
Elza Soares
Defying Societal Norms: Elza Soares' Anthem of Rebellion
Elza Soares' song "Não Recomendado" is a powerful critique of societal norms and the marginalization of those who do not conform. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who is labeled as a misfit, a 'pervert,' 'mal amado' (unloved), and 'viado' (a derogatory term for a gay person). These labels are not just personal attacks but are indicative of a broader societal rejection. The repeated phrase 'Não recomendado a sociedade' (Not recommended for society) serves as a stark reminder of the exclusion faced by those who do not fit into conventional molds.
The song's imagery is striking, with references to censorship and public shaming. The 'placa de censura' (censorship sign) and 'tarja de conforto' (comfort label) symbolize the societal attempts to control and suppress individuality. The repeated mention of 'uma foto' (a photo) being published in newspapers and shown on television highlights the public scrutiny and the media's role in perpetuating these harmful stereotypes. This public exposure is not just a personal attack but a societal condemnation, making the individual a symbol of deviance.
Elza Soares also incorporates a reference to Chico Buarque's song 'Geni e o Zepelim,' which tells the story of a woman who is ostracized and abused by society. The line 'Joga pedra na Geni' (Throw stones at Geni) echoes the same sentiment of societal cruelty and scapegoating. The closing lines, 'Você tem fome de quê? Você tem sede de quê?' (What are you hungry for? What are you thirsty for?), pose a poignant question about the deeper needs and desires that society often ignores in its rush to judge and exclude. Through 'Não Recomendado,' Elza Soares not only critiques societal norms but also calls for a deeper understanding and acceptance of human diversity.