João

Luísa Sobral's song 'João' captures the innocent yet poignant emotions of a schoolgirl's unrequited crush. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the protagonist's daily routine, where she eagerly anticipates seeing João, a boy who seems oblivious to her feelings. Despite her attempts to catch his attention, João remains indifferent, highlighting the universal experience of unreciprocated affection during adolescence.

The song delves into the social dynamics of school life, where popularity and peer approval play significant roles. The protagonist notes that all the girls at school like João and even propose relationships through notes, a nostalgic nod to childhood courtship rituals. This competition for João's attention makes the protagonist's quest for his affection even more challenging. Her feelings of being overlooked are further emphasized when she mentions not being chosen for football teams, symbolizing her sense of exclusion and invisibility.

Sobral's lyrics also touch on themes of self-worth and longing. The protagonist questions what she can do to make João notice her, reflecting a common adolescent struggle with self-esteem and the desire for validation. The song's repetitive structure, with its recurring question of how to make João like her, underscores the persistence of these feelings. The final lines offer a glimmer of hope as João finally looks at her, leaving listeners with a sense of anticipation and the possibility of reciprocated feelings.

'João' is a beautifully crafted narrative that resonates with anyone who has experienced the bittersweet pangs of a schoolyard crush. Sobral's gentle, melodic delivery enhances the song's emotional depth, making it a relatable and touching piece of music.