As Canseiras Desta Vida

José Mário Branco's song "As Canseiras Desta Vida" poignantly captures the relentless struggles and weariness of everyday life, particularly for the working class. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the daily grind, where individuals, especially women, are caught in a cycle of labor and exhaustion. The imagery of a mother tirelessly scrubbing a worn-out jacket until it shines, only for it to remain a tattered rag, symbolizes the futility and endless nature of their efforts. This metaphor extends to the cook who meticulously prepares a meager soup, counting every penny, highlighting the constant battle against poverty and the struggle to make ends meet.

The song delves deeper into the emotional and psychological toll of this unending toil. The recurring lament that life is unbearable and the rhetorical question, "-o que é que se há-de fazer?" ("-what can be done?") reflect a sense of hopelessness and resignation. The lyrics also touch on the passage of time and the illusion of freedom, suggesting that despite the hard work and sacrifices, true liberation remains out of reach. The metaphor of the mother bird tirelessly gathering food for her nest, only to lament the muddy path, underscores the cyclical nature of these struggles and the lack of tangible progress.

In the final verses, Branco contemplates the ultimate question of whether the key to escaping this 'dead-end street' lies in life or death. This existential pondering adds a layer of depth to the song, inviting listeners to reflect on the broader implications of their daily struggles. The song's melancholic tone and introspective lyrics resonate with anyone who has felt the weight of life's burdens, making it a powerful commentary on resilience and the human spirit's capacity to endure despite seemingly insurmountable odds.