Enchente de 41

Graforréia Xilarmônica's song 'Enchente de 41' narrates the story of a significant flood that occurred in 1941, affecting the city of Porto Alegre, Brazil. The lyrics vividly describe how the Guaíba River overflowed, inundating the city center in an unusual and dramatic event. The flood is depicted as a powerful force of nature, with the river seemingly going off course and soaking everything in its path, including the women of the city. This imagery highlights the unexpected and overwhelming nature of the flood, painting a picture of chaos and disruption.

The song contrasts the destructive flood with the usual serene beauty of the Guaíba River, known for its picturesque sunsets. This juxtaposition emphasizes the dual nature of the river, capable of both beauty and destruction. The repeated lines about the river's beautiful sunsets and its role in the flood create a poignant reminder of how nature can be both a source of tranquility and a force of devastation. The use of the metaphor 'enredada num anzol' (caught in a hook) suggests the city's entanglement and helplessness in the face of the flood.

In the aftermath of the flood, the song mentions the various types of boats and rafts that emerged to navigate the flooded streets, highlighting the community's resilience and adaptability. However, the ultimate solution to prevent future floods was the construction of a wall along Mauá Street, symbolizing a barrier between the city and the river. This change distanced the people from the river's beauty, as now one must climb Santa Teresa Hill to appreciate it. The song reflects on the loss of direct connection with the river, a consequence of urban development and the need for protection against natural disasters.