Vara de Família

“Vara de Família” by Galocantô is a lively samba that uses the metaphor of dancing to explore the complexities of family relationships. The song suggests that sometimes, in order to maintain harmony, it is better to dance separately rather than together. This idea is encapsulated in the repeated lines, “Vamos dançar separados, Eu pra lá, você pra cá,” which translate to “Let’s dance separately, I go there, you go here.” The lyrics emphasize the importance of giving each other space to avoid stepping on each other's toes, both literally and metaphorically.

The phrase “Vara de família” refers to a legal term in Brazil, which translates to “family court.” By using this term, the song cleverly draws a parallel between the legal separation of family matters and the need for personal space within familial relationships. The mention of the jurist Antonio Evaristo de Melo Peixoto adds a layer of authenticity and authority to this perspective, suggesting that even legal experts recognize the value of maintaining individual boundaries to prevent conflicts.

The song also touches on the idea of responsibility within the family unit. The line “Quem não dança, pega na criança” implies that those who are not actively participating in the dance (or family dynamics) must take on other responsibilities, such as caring for children. This highlights the interconnectedness of family roles and the necessity of balance and cooperation. Overall, “Vara de Família” uses the joyful and rhythmic nature of samba to convey a deeper message about the importance of respecting personal space and roles within a family to maintain harmony and avoid conflict.