1965 (Duas Tribos)

Legião Urbana's song '1965 (Duas Tribos)' is a powerful commentary on the socio-political landscape of Brazil, particularly reflecting on the period of the military dictatorship that began in 1964. The lyrics are a poignant mix of personal and collective experiences, capturing the essence of a nation grappling with oppression, hope, and the struggle for dignity.

The song opens with a series of fragmented, almost conversational lines that evoke a sense of confusion and disorientation. This mirrors the chaotic atmosphere of the time, where people were unsure of what was real or false, and whether peace and time were truly attainable. The repeated phrase 'E agora é aqui' (And now it is here) serves as a grounding point, emphasizing the immediacy and inescapability of the present moment.

A particularly striking part of the song is the vivid imagery of physical mutilation: 'Cortaram meus braços / Cortaram minhas mãos / Cortaram minhas pernas.' This can be interpreted as a metaphor for the brutal repression experienced by many during the dictatorship, where dissent was often met with severe punishment. The mention of a summer day adds a layer of irony, contrasting the warmth and freedom typically associated with summer with the harsh reality of political violence.

The song also delves into the manipulation of values and ideals, highlighting how dignity, intelligence, and hope can be twisted into negative traits by those in power. The rhetorical questions 'E você de que lado está?' (And you, which side are you on?) challenge the listener to take a stand, reinforcing the theme of moral and ethical conflict. The repeated assertion 'Estou do lado do bem' (I am on the side of good) underscores the band's commitment to justice and righteousness.

In the latter part of the song, the lyrics shift to a more reflective tone, juxtaposing the innocence of childhood ('Eu tenho autorama / Eu tenho Hanna-Barbera') with the harsh realities of life in Brazil. The repeated line 'O Brasil é o país do futuro' (Brazil is the country of the future) is both hopeful and ironic, suggesting a nation with immense potential yet burdened by its present struggles. The closing lines 'Eu quero tudo / Pra cima' (I want everything / Upwards) encapsulate a desire for progress and a better future, despite the challenges faced.