É D'oxum
Gal Costa
The Enchanting Embrace of Oxum in Gal Costa's 'É D'oxum'
Gal Costa's song 'É D'oxum' is a beautiful homage to the Afro-Brazilian deity Oxum, a goddess associated with fresh water, fertility, love, and beauty in the Candomblé and Umbanda religions. The lyrics celebrate the pervasive presence of Oxum in a city where everyone, regardless of their background, is touched by her divine influence. The song opens with the assertion that everyone in the city, from men and women to children, is connected to Oxum, highlighting a sense of unity and shared spirituality.
The lyrics emphasize the magical and radiant nature of the city, which is imbued with Oxum's essence. This magic is present in both fresh and saltwater, symbolizing the omnipresence of the goddess and her ability to transcend different realms. The song suggests that Oxum's power is democratic and inclusive, affecting everyone from high-ranking officials to humble fishermen. This inclusivity is further reinforced by the line 'A força que mora n'água / Não faz distinção de cor,' which means 'The force that resides in the water / Makes no distinction of color.' This line underscores the idea that Oxum's blessings are universal and do not discriminate based on social or racial differences.
The repetitive refrain 'É d'Oxum' serves as a mantra, reinforcing the idea that the entire city is under the protective and nurturing influence of Oxum. The song concludes with the singer expressing a desire to navigate the waves of the sea, a metaphor for embarking on a spiritual journey guided by Oxum's wisdom and love. Through its poetic lyrics and evocative imagery, 'É D'oxum' invites listeners to embrace the divine presence in their lives and recognize the interconnectedness of all beings under the benevolent gaze of Oxum.