O pica-pau
Erasmo Carlos
The Mischievous Rivalry in 'O Pica-pau' by Erasmo Carlos
Erasmo Carlos's song 'O Pica-pau' is a playful and humorous narrative that captures a light-hearted moment of jealousy and rivalry. The song revolves around a couple's visit to the cinema, where they encounter the animated character Woody Woodpecker (Pica-Pau in Portuguese). The repetitive 'He He!' and 'Hehehe!' mimic the iconic laugh of Woody Woodpecker, setting a whimsical tone for the song.
The lyrics describe a situation where the protagonist takes his significant other to watch a festival at the cinema. Just as he attempts to share a romantic moment, Woody Woodpecker appears on the screen, capturing his partner's attention. The protagonist's frustration is palpable as his partner becomes enamored with the cartoon character, repeatedly exclaiming how 'cool' the little bird is. This unexpected competition for affection leads to the protagonist feeling neglected and jealous, humorously referring to Woody Woodpecker as his 'rival.'
Erasmo Carlos, known for his contributions to Brazilian rock and his collaborations with Roberto Carlos, infuses the song with a sense of fun and nostalgia. The playful rivalry with a cartoon character highlights the sometimes absurd nature of jealousy and the unexpected sources of competition in relationships. The song's repetitive and catchy chorus, along with its humorous narrative, makes it a memorable and entertaining piece that resonates with listeners who can relate to the light-hearted yet relatable theme of feeling overshadowed by something or someone unexpected.