Lembra de Mim
Emílio Santiago
Nostalgia and Lost Love in Emílio Santiago's 'Lembra de Mim'
Emílio Santiago's song 'Lembra de Mim' is a poignant exploration of nostalgia and lost love. The lyrics are a heartfelt plea to a former lover, asking them to remember the beautiful moments they shared. The imagery of 'beijos que escrevi nos muros a giz' (kisses written on walls with chalk) evokes a sense of impermanence and fleeting joy, as chalk can easily be washed away, much like their love. These 'beijos' serve as a testament to a time when someone was truly happy, capturing the essence of a love that once was.
The song continues to paint vivid pictures of the past, with the couple 'provocando os casais' (teasing other couples) and 'amando mais do que o amor é capaz' (loving more than love itself is capable of). This hyperbolic expression underscores the intensity and uniqueness of their relationship. The mention of 'se casava ao luar' (getting married under the moonlight) and 'jogava os nossos corpos no mar' (throwing our bodies into the sea) adds a romantic and almost mythical quality to their love, suggesting that their bond was both passionate and all-consuming.
As the song progresses, there is a shift towards a more melancholic tone. The line 'Se existe um pouco de prazer em sofrer' (If there is a bit of pleasure in suffering) reveals the bittersweet nature of reminiscing about a lost love. The narrator acknowledges the pain of longing but also finds a strange comfort in these memories. The repetition of 'Lembra de mim' (Remember me) throughout the song emphasizes the deep desire to be remembered and the fear of being forgotten. This song beautifully captures the complexity of human emotions, blending joy, sorrow, and longing into a timeless melody.