Folhas de Outono
Felipe Valente
The Fragility of Autumn Leaves: A Reflection on Human Vulnerability
Felipe Valente's song "Folhas de Outono" delves into the theme of human fragility and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone observing the world around them, using simple tools like a pencil and paper to capture the essence of the sky. This act of drawing becomes a metaphor for trying to grasp and understand the fleeting nature of life. The open door and the wind from the yard serve as reminders of the singer's own vulnerability, likening themselves to autumn leaves—delicate and easily scattered by the wind.
The recurring imagery of autumn leaves is particularly poignant. Autumn is a season often associated with change, decay, and the end of a cycle. By comparing themselves to autumn leaves, the singer acknowledges their own impermanence and susceptibility to external forces. The phrase "frágil como quem não tem dono" (fragile like someone who has no owner) further emphasizes a sense of being unanchored and exposed to the whims of fate. This vulnerability is not just physical but also emotional and existential.
Despite this fragility, there is a subtle undercurrent of resilience in the song. The act of letting the room's light fade and lying on the floor, asking for a pencil to draw on a piece of bread paper, suggests a form of surrender and acceptance. It's a moment of introspection and peace, even in the face of one's own delicate nature. The final lines introduce a glimmer of hope, as the wind that initially seemed to scatter the leaves also brings a realization that the singer is not entirely alone or untethered. This duality of fragility and resilience makes "Folhas de Outono" a deeply reflective and emotionally resonant piece.