Astronauta

João Gilberto's song "Astronauta" is a poetic exploration of loss and the boundless imagination that accompanies it. The lyrics tell the story of someone who has disappeared, leaving the narrator to wonder about their whereabouts. This person, who once was a significant part of the narrator's life, now exists only in thoughts and dreams, symbolized by celestial and ethereal imagery.

The song opens with the idea that the person now resides in the narrator's thoughts or perhaps in the heavens, traveling through the sky. This metaphorical language suggests that the person has transcended the earthly realm, becoming something more abstract and unreachable. The mention of an astronaut, a bird, or even a gust of wind illustrates the various forms this person could take, emphasizing their elusive and ever-changing nature.

As the song progresses, the narrator continues to speculate about the person's new existence. They could be on an asteroid, a star, or even living on Mars. This cosmic imagery not only highlights the vast distance between the narrator and the lost person but also reflects the infinite possibilities of where they might be. The final lines, "Nunca mais se soube dela / Desapareceu" ("Never again was she known / She disappeared"), underscore the sense of mystery and unresolved longing that permeates the song.

João Gilberto, a pioneer of Bossa Nova, uses his signature gentle guitar strumming and soft vocals to convey the delicate emotions of the song. The soothing melody contrasts with the poignant lyrics, creating a bittersweet atmosphere that captures the essence of longing and the human tendency to seek solace in imagination when faced with loss.