O Vendedor De Bananas

Jorge Ben Jor's song "O Vendedor De Bananas" is a vibrant and rhythmic celebration of the life of a banana vendor. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young man who sells various types of bananas, from Nanica to Ouro, as a means of making a living. This seemingly simple occupation is imbued with a sense of pride and dignity, as the vendor takes joy in his work and the independence it affords him. The repetition of phrases like "Olha a banana" and "Olha o bananeiro" serves to emphasize the vendor's enthusiasm and dedication to his trade.

The song delves deeper into the vendor's personal motivations and aspirations. He is not just selling bananas to survive; he is doing so to maintain a sense of honor and to support his lifestyle and loved ones. The vendor's desire to stay fashionable and to share his stories with his beloved highlights his human side, making him relatable and endearing. The line "Eu sou um menino que precisa de dinheiro" underscores his youth and the necessity of his work, while also hinting at a broader social commentary on the struggles of the working class.

Jorge Ben Jor's musical style, which blends samba, bossa nova, and funk, adds a layer of complexity to the song. The upbeat tempo and catchy melody contrast with the underlying message of resilience and determination. The vendor's declaration that he is not a "pária no mundo" and his insistence on his honor reflect a defiance against societal judgments and stereotypes. This song is a testament to the dignity of labor and the personal pride that comes from honest work, no matter how humble it may seem.