Causa Mortis
Engenheiros do Hawaii
The Dark Satire of 'Causa Mortis' by Engenheiros do Hawaii
Engenheiros do Hawaii's song 'Causa Mortis' is a darkly satirical piece that delves into themes of violence, insanity, and societal critique. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a character who commits a series of gruesome murders, each described with a chilling nonchalance. The repetition of the phrase 'Você matou' (You killed) underscores the relentless nature of the character's actions, creating a sense of inevitability and horror. This repetition also serves to highlight the absurdity and extremity of the violence, pushing the listener to question the motivations and sanity of the character.
The song's narrative is filled with specific and shocking details, such as killing a mother to study anatomy and poisoning a father with vermouth. These acts are not just random acts of violence but are tied to specific, often ironic, reasons. For instance, the murder of the American president due to political differences ('Você era democrata, ele republicano') adds a layer of political commentary, suggesting a critique of the extreme polarization and the lengths to which people might go to assert their beliefs.
The chorus, with its refusal to 'alimentar teu bisturi' (feed your scalpel), represents a rejection of the character's madness and violence. The reference to 'cão andaluz' (Andalusian dog) is likely a nod to the surrealist film 'Un Chien Andalou' by Luis Buñuel and Salvador Dalí, known for its shocking and disturbing imagery. This connection further emphasizes the surreal and grotesque nature of the song's narrative. Overall, 'Causa Mortis' uses its macabre storytelling to critique societal issues and human nature, wrapped in a layer of dark humor and irony.