Se Tu Fores Ver o Mar (rosalinda)
Fausto Bordalo Dias
A Lament for Nature and Humanity: Fausto Bordalo Dias' 'Se Tu Fores Ver o Mar (rosalinda)'
Fausto Bordalo Dias' song 'Se Tu Fores Ver o Mar (rosalinda)' is a poignant commentary on environmental degradation and its impact on both nature and humanity. The song addresses Rosalinda, a symbolic figure representing innocence and purity, warning her about the polluted state of the beach and the sea. The imagery of oil-stained shores and tar-covered sands paints a grim picture of environmental neglect. The once pristine dunes are now littered with plastic and coal, emitting foul odors reminiscent of urban decay. This vivid description serves as a metaphor for the broader environmental crisis, highlighting the consequences of industrial pollution.
The song also delves into the human cost of industrialization. Fausto Bordalo Dias draws attention to the plight of factory workers who, despite their hard work, are subjected to hazardous conditions. The lyrics describe workers breathing in toxic fumes, leading to illness and fainting. This critique extends to the powerful individuals who prioritize profit over the well-being of their workers and the environment. The song underscores the disparity between those who control the means of production and the laborers who suffer the consequences, emphasizing the exploitative nature of industrial capitalism.
In the final verses, the song shifts focus to the construction of a nuclear power plant in Ferrel, near Peniche. This development is portrayed as a symbol of modern civilization's destructive tendencies. The lyrics predict a grim future where fish are either sick or dead, and fishermen lose their livelihoods. The reference to 'civilization' is laced with irony, questioning the true cost of progress. Through 'Se Tu Fores Ver o Mar (rosalinda),' Fausto Bordalo Dias calls for awareness and action, urging listeners to recognize the interconnectedness of environmental and social issues and to protect both nature and humanity from further harm.