Mãe da Mata

The song 'Mãe da Mata' by Boi Garantido is a powerful ode to the natural world and a call to protect the environment. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a forest under siege by human activities such as deforestation and hunting. The 'reino das pedras' or 'kingdom of stones' symbolizes the encroachment of urbanization and industrialization, which has buried the once-thriving forest. Despite this, the song expresses a hopeful plea from future generations for clean air, shade from trees, the song of birds, and clean water—basic elements of a healthy ecosystem.

The song introduces the figure of 'Mãe da Mata,' a mythical guardian of the forest who emerges whenever a tree falls or an animal suffers. This character is richly described with 'grinalda de ninhos' (a garland of nests), 'seios desnudos' (bare breasts), and adorned with orchids and ferns. Her eyes are like those of a 'cobra-grande' (a large snake), and she rides a 'porco-queixada' (a type of wild pig). This imagery draws from indigenous Brazilian mythology, particularly the Tupy people, and serves to personify the forest's spirit and its resilience.

'Mãe da Mata' is not just a guardian but also a punisher of greed and a sower of love and harmony. She embodies the collective cry of all living beings in the forest, asserting her role as 'natureza, vida, mãe-terra' (nature, life, mother earth). The repeated invocation of 'Deusa Tupy Caa-cy' reinforces her divine status and her deep connection to the Tupy culture. Through this song, Boi Garantido emphasizes the sacredness of nature and the urgent need to protect it from human exploitation, urging listeners to let the forest and the miracle of life flourish once more.