Deusa do Ébano II

Ilê Aiyê's song 'Deusa do Ébano II' is a vibrant homage to black beauty, culture, and the powerful spirit of the Afro-Brazilian community. The lyrics are a passionate expression of love and admiration for a 'Deusa do Ébano' (Ebony Goddess), a symbol of black beauty and strength. The song's protagonist is deeply enamored with this figure, whose presence and essence are intertwined with the cultural and spiritual identity of Ilê Aiyê, a prominent Afro-Brazilian cultural group based in Salvador, Bahia.

The song opens with a sense of longing and unrequited love, as the protagonist's request for a kiss is denied, leaving him in a state of burning passion. This unfulfilled desire is not just for physical affection but also for a deeper connection with the 'Deusa do Ébano,' who represents the beauty and resilience of black culture. The lyrics convey a sense of wandering and searching, as the protagonist roams the streets, feeling incomplete without her presence. This search leads him to Ilê Aiyê, a place where he hopes to find her and, by extension, reconnect with his cultural roots.

The chorus celebrates the 'Deusa do Ébano' as a symbol of black beauty and cultural pride. The repetition of 'Oh! Minha beleza negra, negra' (Oh! My black beauty, black) and 'Oh! Minha deusa do Ébano' (Oh! My ebony goddess) emphasizes the reverence and admiration for blackness. The lyrics also highlight the cultural significance of Ilê Aiyê, describing it as a place where black culture is celebrated and written on the 'naked body' of the goddess. This imagery suggests that black culture is an intrinsic part of the identity and physicality of the 'Deusa do Ébano.'

The song also touches on themes of freedom and liberation, with references to 'liberdade Ilê Aiyê' (freedom Ilê Aiyê) and 'Sonho lindo Curuzu' (beautiful dream Curuzu). These lines evoke a sense of hope and aspiration for a future where black people can fully embrace and celebrate their heritage. The mention of 'tambores' (drums) and 'festa negra' (black party) underscores the importance of music and dance in Afro-Brazilian culture, serving as a form of resistance, expression, and communal joy. The song ultimately portrays the 'Deusa do Ébano' as a majestic and powerful figure, whose presence brings happiness and fulfillment to the protagonist's life.