Cantigas de "A Cigarra e a Formiga"

João de Barro's song, 'Cantigas de "A Cigarra e a Formiga"', brings to life the classic fable of the ant and the grasshopper through a vibrant and engaging musical narrative. The lyrics juxtapose the diligent, hardworking ant with the carefree, singing grasshopper, each representing different philosophies of life. The ant, symbolizing industriousness and foresight, is depicted as tirelessly working to store food for the future, ensuring survival and stability. This is evident in the lines where the ant counts sacks of flour and beans, emphasizing the importance of preparation and hard work.

In contrast, the grasshopper embodies a more hedonistic and present-focused approach to life. The grasshopper sings about happiness, the beauty of life, and the joy of living in the moment. The lyrics, 'Sou feliz, Cigarra cantadeira, Canto a vida, canto a luz,' highlight the grasshopper's belief in enjoying the present and finding joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as singing and basking in the sunlight. This perspective is further reinforced by the grasshopper's dismissal of material wealth in favor of the intangible beauty of nature, as seen in the lines, 'De que vale um tesouro, Junto às flores do arrebol?'

The song ultimately presents a philosophical debate between two ways of living: the ant's pragmatic, future-oriented mindset versus the grasshopper's carefree, present-focused attitude. João de Barro uses this timeless fable to explore themes of work, leisure, and the balance between the two. The song invites listeners to reflect on their own lives and consider the value of both hard work and the enjoyment of life's fleeting moments.