Pra onde vás Maria

The song 'Pra onde vás Maria' by Fuxan Os Ventos is a playful and satirical piece that delves into the everyday life and social dynamics of a rural community. The lyrics are rich with humor and local color, painting a vivid picture of the characters and their interactions. The song opens with a humorous complaint about bedbugs, setting a light-hearted tone that continues throughout the piece.

The repeated question 'Pra onde vás Maria?' (Where are you going, Maria?) serves as a refrain that ties the verses together. Maria's responses are whimsical and laden with double meanings. For instance, when she says she is coming from the 'verdura' (vegetable garden) and mentions the 'ricos repolos' (rich cabbages) of the priest, it hints at a playful critique of the clergy's wealth and perhaps their moral standing. The mention of 'baixo da saia' (under the skirt) adds a layer of cheeky innuendo, further emphasizing the song's satirical nature.

The song also touches on themes of marriage and social expectations. The verse about marrying a widower who 'fariña non da' (doesn't give flour) uses the metaphor of flour to discuss the viability and productivity of a potential spouse. This metaphor extends to the verse about the old woman at the festival who only watches the bagpiper, suggesting a commentary on aging and social participation. The final verse humorously questions the fidelity and usefulness of the narrator's husband, who returns from the mill covered in flour but is not a miller, leaving the narrator to wonder about his true activities.

Overall, 'Pra onde vás Maria' is a delightful exploration of rural life, filled with humor, satire, and a touch of social commentary. It captures the essence of community interactions and the playful banter that characterizes close-knit societies.