O Exército de Um Homem Só

Engenheiros do Hawaii's song 'O Exército de Um Homem Só' delves into themes of individualism, resistance, and the quest for personal peace. The lyrics emphasize the importance of personal expression and the rejection of societal norms. The opening lines suggest that even if only the first chord of a song is played, individuals have the power to write the rest of their story in unconventional ways, whether on bathroom walls or autumn leaves. This metaphor highlights the idea that true creativity and meaning often lie outside the mainstream and are found in the margins of society.

The chorus, 'Somos um exército, o exército de um homem só,' translates to 'We are an army, the army of one man,' and underscores the paradox of being a solitary force. This 'army' is not bound by traditional symbols like flags or borders, representing a form of resistance that is deeply personal and internal. The song suggests that living in peace is a challenging exercise, one that requires a departure from societal expectations and norms. The lyrics also touch on the idea that what is not printed or widely accepted continues to be written by hand, in the dim light, away from the crowd. This imagery evokes a sense of quiet rebellion and the persistence of individual thought.

The song also critiques societal constructs and authority figures, stating that it doesn't matter what common sense, the king, or the state says. The lyrics assert that the 'army of one' speaks a different language and lives in another country, metaphorically suggesting a complete disconnection from conventional societal structures. This defiance is further emphasized in the lines 'Não interessa o que o bom senso diz' and 'Nós falamos outra língua,' which translate to 'It doesn't matter what common sense says' and 'We speak another language.' The song concludes with a reflection on the futility of labels like 'guilty' or 'capable,' suggesting that in the grand scheme of this solitary journey, such distinctions are meaningless.