Ponto de Marinheiro - Marinheiro Só
Juliana D Passos
Sailing Through Symbolism: The Essence of 'Ponto de Marinheiro - Marinheiro Só'
The song 'Ponto de Marinheiro - Marinheiro Só' performed by Juliana D Passos from the channel Macumbaria is a traditional Brazilian point, a type of song used in Afro-Brazilian religious practices, specifically in Candomblé and Umbanda. These songs are often used to invoke and honor specific Orixás (deities) or entities. The lyrics of this song evoke the imagery of a sailor and his connection to the sea, which is a common theme in the Afro-Brazilian religious context.
The opening lines, 'Eu não sou daqui / Eu não tenho amor / Eu sou da Bahia / De São Salvador,' suggest a sense of not belonging and a longing for the singer's place of origin, Bahia, which is a state in Brazil known for its rich Afro-Brazilian culture and history. The reference to São Salvador, the capital of Bahia, further roots the song in the cultural and spiritual traditions of the region. The song's chorus, 'Ô marinheiro, marinheiro / Quem te ensinou a nadar? / Foi o tombo do navio / Ou foi o balanço do mar?' poses a rhetorical question about the sailor's ability to swim, attributing it either to a shipwreck ('tombo do navio') or the sway of the sea ('balanço do mar'). This could be interpreted as a metaphor for life's challenges and the idea that adversity teaches us valuable skills.
The final verse, 'Lá vem, lá vem / Ele vem faceiro / Todinho de branco / Com seu bonezinho,' describes the sailor's approach, dressed all in white with a cap, which is a typical attire for followers of Candomblé and Umbanda during rituals. The color white is often associated with peace, purity, and the divine in these religions. The song, through its simple yet profound lyrics, captures the essence of the sailor's spirit, which is often associated with entities that guide and protect those at sea, and by extension, anyone navigating the turbulent waters of life.