Samba-Enredo 2018 - Meu Deus, Meu Deus, Está Extinta a Escravidão?

The song 'Samba-Enredo 2018 - Meu Deus, Meu Deus, Está Extinta a Escravidão?' by G.R.E.S Paraíso do Tuiuti is a powerful and evocative piece that delves deep into the history and lingering effects of slavery in Brazil. The lyrics are a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by enslaved Africans and their descendants, questioning whether true freedom has ever been fully achieved. The song is a samba-enredo, a genre traditionally used in Brazilian Carnival parades to tell stories and convey messages through music and dance.

The opening lines, 'Não sou escravo de nenhum senhor / Meu Paraíso é meu bastião,' assert a strong declaration of independence and self-worth. The reference to 'Meu Tuiuti, o quilombo da favela' evokes the historical quilombos, communities of escaped slaves who resisted oppression and fought for their freedom. This imagery sets the stage for a narrative that intertwines past and present struggles for liberation and equality.

The lyrics also highlight the dehumanizing nature of slavery, with lines like 'Pobre artigo de mercado' and 'Senhor, eu não tenho a sua fé / E nem tenho a sua cor.' These words underscore the commodification of human lives and the racial and cultural divides that were enforced by the institution of slavery. The song pays homage to the resilience and resistance of those who suffered, mentioning historical figures and symbols such as 'Preto Velho' and 'Rei Egbá,' and recounting the brutal realities of life under bondage.

The chorus, 'Meu Deus! Meu Deus! / Se eu chorar, não leve a mal / Pela luz do candeeiro / Liberte o cativeiro social,' is a heartfelt plea for social justice and true emancipation. It calls for the end of modern forms of oppression and inequality, suggesting that the legacy of slavery still casts a long shadow over society. The song's blend of historical reflection and contemporary relevance makes it a powerful anthem for those who continue to fight for freedom and equality in Brazil and beyond.