Cobra Criada

João Bosco's song 'Cobra Criada' is a vivid tapestry of Brazilian fauna and folklore, woven together with a rich array of metaphors and cultural references. The lyrics are a colorful mosaic of various animals and plants, each carrying its own symbolic weight. The song opens with a list of creatures and elements from the natural world, such as 'suco de sururucu' (juice of a type of snake) and 'posta de pirarucu' (a cut of a large Amazonian fish), setting the stage for a journey through the wild and untamed aspects of nature.

The recurring imagery of snakes, particularly the 'jararucu' and 'jararacoral,' serves as a central metaphor in the song. Snakes in Brazilian culture often symbolize danger, transformation, and the unknown. The line 'Picada de cobra, amor, não dói' (Snake bite, love, doesn't hurt) juxtaposes the physical pain of a snake bite with the emotional complexities of love, suggesting that the latter can be even more insidious and enduring. This metaphor extends to other creatures mentioned, like the 'piranha' and 'traíra,' both known for their sharp teeth and predatory nature, further emphasizing themes of betrayal and survival.

The song's structure and rhythm mimic the unpredictable and often dangerous dance of life. The use of regional dialect and colloquial expressions adds an authentic layer to the narrative, grounding it in the everyday experiences of those familiar with these creatures and their habitats. João Bosco's musical style, which blends samba, jazz, and MPB (Música Popular Brasileira), enhances the lyrical content, creating a dynamic and immersive listening experience. 'Cobra Criada' is not just a song but a poetic exploration of life's inherent dangers and the resilience required to navigate them.