Cobaia
Lauana Prado
The Longing of a Love Unrequited: Lauana Prado's 'Cobaia'
Lauana Prado's song 'Cobaia' is a poignant portrayal of unrequited love and the lengths to which one might go to remain close to the object of their affection. The lyrics express a deep yearning to be involved in the life of the person they love, even if it means taking on a subservient role. The term 'cobaia' translates to 'guinea pig' or 'test subject' in English, which is a metaphor for the singer volunteering to be the person on whom the beloved can test their love and affection before giving it to someone else.
The song's narrator offers to do anything that keeps them near their love interest, from mundane tasks like fetching a towel after a bath to more intimate acts like testing kisses. This willingness to be used as a test subject for love highlights the vulnerability and desperation that can accompany unrequited feelings. The repetition of the lines 'Quando for beijar alguém / Testa esse beijo em mim / Antes de amar, meu bem / Testa esse amor em mim' emphasizes the hope that by being so close and available, the beloved might eventually reciprocate the feelings.
Lauana Prado, a Brazilian sertanejo singer, often explores themes of love, heartache, and passion in her music. 'Cobaia' is a testament to her ability to convey complex emotions through simple yet powerful lyrics. The song resonates with anyone who has ever loved someone from afar, hoping against hope for their feelings to be noticed and returned.