Gostosa
Jorge Ben Jor
The Long-Distance Love Dilemma in 'Gostosa' by Jorge Ben Jor
Jorge Ben Jor's song 'Gostosa' delves into the complexities and challenges of a long-distance relationship. The term 'gostosa,' which translates to 'hot' or 'sexy,' is used to describe the allure and attractiveness of the woman the singer is infatuated with. However, the song quickly reveals that this attraction comes with significant obstacles, primarily the physical distance between them. The repeated phrase 'Bem que minha mãe avisou' ('My mother warned me') underscores the wisdom and foresight of his mother, who cautioned him about the difficulties of such a relationship.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the arduous journey the singer must undertake to see his beloved. He describes a grueling 36-hour bus ride filled with discomforts like dangerous curves, noisy and smelly fellow passengers, and the cold of the night. The mention of 'o susto do arrastão' (the scare of a mass robbery) adds a layer of danger to his travels. The singer also laments the high cost of flying, making it clear that financial constraints further complicate their relationship. This narrative highlights the sacrifices and challenges that come with maintaining a long-distance romance.
In addition to the physical and financial hurdles, the song touches on modern communication issues. The singer's mother warns him about the high phone bills and the potential for eavesdropping ('telefone grampeado'). She also mentions the complications of using a satellite dish for communication, suggesting that even technological solutions have their drawbacks. Despite all these challenges, the singer's infatuation with the 'gostosa' woman keeps him committed, raising the question of whether the sacrifices are worth it. This song captures the bittersweet nature of long-distance love, blending humor and realism in its portrayal of the singer's predicament.