Ministério da Economia

Geraldo Pereira's song "Ministério da Economia" is a poignant and hopeful commentary on the socio-economic conditions of the time. The lyrics reflect the optimism and relief felt by the common people following promises of economic reform by the government. The song addresses the President directly, expressing gratitude and hope that the new economic policies will make life more affordable and improve the living conditions of the poor. This direct address to the President underscores the personal and communal stakes involved in economic policy decisions.

The song vividly portrays the struggles of the poor, using the metaphor of eating cat meat to highlight the extreme measures people had to take to survive. The mention of being able to afford beef now symbolizes a significant improvement in living standards. The protagonist's joy at being able to live with his love without the fear of starvation further emphasizes the transformative impact of these economic changes. This personal narrative is a powerful way to illustrate broader social issues, making the song relatable and emotionally resonant.

Cultural references, such as sending his beloved to work in a wealthy household in Copacabana, highlight the class disparities and the lengths to which people had to go to make ends meet. The song ends on a hopeful note, with the protagonist planning to bring his love back home, confident that they can now live a better life. The imagery of cats laughing with joy in the hills (morro) adds a touch of humor and lightness, symbolizing the collective relief and happiness of the community. Pereira's musical style, rooted in samba, adds a rhythmic and melodic layer to the narrative, making the song both a social commentary and a celebration of resilience and hope.