Cada Tempo Em Seu Lugar

Gilberto Gil's song 'Cada Tempo Em Seu Lugar' is a profound reflection on the importance of patience, balance, and the acceptance of life's natural rhythms. The lyrics convey a message that resonates deeply with the human experience, emphasizing the need to temper our desires and actions with wisdom and restraint. Gil begins by acknowledging the futility of trying to change the world through impulsive actions, suggesting that true change requires a more measured approach. This is encapsulated in the line, 'Não vou mudar um mundo louco dando socos para o ar,' which translates to 'I won't change a crazy world by punching the air.' The metaphor of being the last to leave the airplane symbolizes the virtue of patience and the understanding that haste often undermines perfection.

The song also delves into the complexities of goodness and justice. Gil reflects on the potential pitfalls of always striving to be good, noting that even virtues can become vices if not balanced properly. He draws a parallel to Jesus, who used a whip to drive out the money changers from the temple, illustrating that even acts of goodness and justice must be contextually appropriate. The refrain, 'Cada coisa em seu lugar,' meaning 'Each thing in its place,' reinforces the idea that there is a right time and place for everything, including kindness, justice, and forgiveness.

In the final verse, Gil invokes the wisdom of a 'velho sábio na Bahia,' or 'old wise man in Bahia,' who advises him to take things slowly. This advice serves as a reminder of the transient nature of life and the importance of living in the moment. The song concludes with a poignant reflection on solitude and disillusionment, suggesting that even these experiences have their rightful place in the tapestry of life. By embracing the natural flow of time and events, Gil encourages listeners to find peace and wisdom in the present moment.