3ª do Plural

Engenheiros do Hawaii's song '3ª do Plural' is a sharp critique of consumerism and the manipulative forces behind it. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a society driven by relentless marketing and consumption. The opening lines describe a cyclical race to sell products, from cigarettes to cars, highlighting how each product leads to the need for another, creating a never-ending loop of consumption. This cycle is not just about selling goods but also about selling ideas and beliefs, as seen in the line 'Cabeça pra usar boné e professar a fé de quem patrocina,' which translates to 'Head to wear a cap and profess the faith of the sponsor.' This suggests that consumerism extends beyond material goods to influence our thoughts and beliefs.

The repeated question 'Quem são eles?' or 'Who are they?' serves as a powerful rhetorical device, urging listeners to question the faceless entities that control and manipulate society. These 'they' are the corporations and advertisers who dictate trends, desires, and even our sense of self-worth. The song's chorus emphasizes this manipulation, stating that 'Eles querem te vender, eles querem te comprar,' meaning 'They want to sell you, they want to buy you.' This line underscores the dehumanizing aspect of consumerism, where individuals are reduced to mere commodities.

The song also touches on themes of obsolescence and the illusion of choice. Lines like 'Obsolescência programada' or 'Planned obsolescence' and 'Eles ganham a corrida antes mesmo da largada' ('They win the race before it even starts') highlight how products are designed to become outdated quickly, forcing consumers into a perpetual cycle of buying. The song's closing lines, 'Vender, comprar, vendar os olhos' ('Sell, buy, blindfold the eyes'), encapsulate the overall message: consumerism blinds us, preventing us from seeing the true nature of our existence and the forces that control it.

'3ª do Plural' is a powerful social commentary that challenges listeners to question the pervasive influence of consumerism and the entities that perpetuate it. Through its incisive lyrics and compelling metaphors, the song encourages a deeper reflection on the true cost of our consumption-driven society.