Por Este Rio Acima

Fausto Bordalo Dias, a renowned Portuguese artist, crafts a poetic and evocative narrative in his song 'Por Este Rio Acima.' The lyrics take the listener on a metaphorical journey up a river, symbolizing a quest for dreams, self-discovery, and the blending of cultural and personal experiences. The river serves as a powerful metaphor for life's journey, with its flowing waters representing the passage of time and the continuous movement towards one's aspirations.

The song opens with the imagery of leaving behind the 'côncava funda da casa do fumo,' which can be interpreted as departing from a place of stagnation or routine. As the narrator floats on the river's waters, they encounter a dreamlike world filled with 'gengibre e mel,' 'sedas porcelanas,' and 'pimenta e canela.' These elements evoke a sense of exoticism and richness, suggesting that the journey is not just physical but also a voyage through different cultures and experiences. The mention of 'músicas suaves' and the lightness of the air further enhance the ethereal quality of this journey, making it a sensory exploration as much as a spiritual one.

Throughout the song, there is a recurring theme of harmony and balance. The lyrics describe a world where 'isto que é de uns também é de outros,' emphasizing the interconnectedness of all things. This idea is reinforced by the imagery of nature, such as 'bosques enfeitiçados' and 'campinas de trigo,' which symbolize the beauty and unity found in the natural world. The song suggests that true peace and harmony arise from recognizing and embracing these connections, both within ourselves and with the world around us.

In the refrain, the narrator expresses a deep longing for their dream, repeating 'Meu sonho, quanto eu te quero.' This longing is tinged with uncertainty, as they admit, 'Eu nem sei.' This vulnerability adds a layer of emotional depth to the song, highlighting the universal human experience of yearning for something greater while grappling with the unknown. The repetition of the journey 'por este rio acima' underscores the idea that this quest is ongoing, a continuous pursuit of dreams and understanding.