Qui Nem Jiló

In 'Qui Nem Jiló,' Lucy Alves delves into the complex emotions surrounding saudade, a Portuguese term that encapsulates a deep sense of longing and nostalgia. The song's lyrics explore two facets of saudade: the bittersweet remembrance of a lost love and the painful yearning for someone who is still desired. The opening lines suggest that recalling a past love can be comforting, as it reassures one of their capacity for happiness and resilience. This type of saudade is almost pleasant, serving as a reminder of the joy once experienced without the accompanying pain of loss.

However, the song quickly shifts to a more agonizing form of saudade, where the longing for a reunion with a loved one becomes unbearable. The singer confesses to living in a state of constant suffering, dreaming of returning to the arms of their beloved. This intense yearning is likened to the bitterness of jiló, a Brazilian vegetable known for its sharp taste. Despite this inner turmoil, the singer maintains a facade of strength, refusing to let others see their tears.

The chorus reveals the singer's coping mechanism: singing. Music becomes a therapeutic outlet, a way to soothe the soul and manage the overwhelming emotions of saudade. The repetitive 'Laialá' in the chorus mimics the act of singing, emphasizing its role as a remedy. Lucy Alves' rendition of 'Qui Nem Jiló' beautifully captures the dual nature of saudade, blending melancholy with a sense of resilience and hope through the power of song.