Ponto de Ibeji - União de Bejada
Juliana D Passos
The Healing Power of Play: A Celebration of Childhood in 'Ponto de Ibeji - União de Bejada'
Juliana D Passos' song 'Ponto de Ibeji - União de Bejada' is a vibrant homage to the innocence and joy of childhood, deeply rooted in Afro-Brazilian cultural and religious traditions. The song opens with a reverent salute to São Cosme and São Damião, twin saints who are often associated with children and healing in Brazilian folklore. This sets the tone for a celebration of the playful and curative nature of childhood.
The lyrics are filled with imagery of sweets, guaraná (a popular Brazilian soft drink), and playful activities like 'pega-pega' (tag), 'ciranda' (a traditional circle dance), and 'carrinho de mão' (wheelbarrow race). These elements evoke a sense of nostalgia and simplicity, highlighting how play and joy are integral to the well-being of children. The repeated refrain, 'É brincando que eu vou te curar' (It's by playing that I will heal you), underscores the therapeutic power of play, suggesting that joy and laughter are essential for healing and growth.
The song also weaves in cultural references to Iemanjá, the Afro-Brazilian goddess of the sea, and other symbolic figures like Rosinha and Faísca. These references enrich the song's cultural tapestry, connecting the innocence of childhood with broader spiritual and cultural themes. By invoking these figures, Juliana D Passos not only celebrates the joy of childhood but also honors the cultural heritage that shapes these experiences. The song is a beautiful reminder of the healing power of play and the importance of preserving cultural traditions that celebrate and protect the innocence of children.