Confissão 157

“Confissão 157” by Forma de Expressão is a raw and poignant narrative that delves into the harsh realities of life in the favelas of Brazil. The song opens with a nostalgic scene of childhood, where the protagonist recalls playing soccer and flying kites with friends. However, this innocence is quickly overshadowed by the struggles and hardships that come with growing up in a marginalized community. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of poverty, with references to a lack of basic necessities like electricity and hot water, and a mother who works tirelessly for meager wages.

As the song progresses, the protagonist and his friends, now teenagers, find themselves drawn into a life of crime as a means of survival. The “157” in the title refers to the Brazilian penal code for armed robbery, indicating the serious nature of their actions. Despite knowing that what they are doing is wrong, the protagonist justifies his actions as a desperate attempt to provide for his family. The lyrics capture the internal conflict and moral dilemmas faced by those who feel they have no other options.

The song reaches a climax with a robbery that goes wrong, leading to the arrest of the protagonist’s friends and his own narrow escape. The betrayal by his friends, who give him up to the authorities, adds a layer of tragedy to the story. The protagonist is left to reflect on the consequences of his actions and the impact on his family, particularly his mother. The song ends on a somber note, with the protagonist imprisoned and haunted by his choices. “Confissão 157” is a powerful commentary on the cycle of poverty and crime, and the difficult choices faced by those living in the favelas.