3 X 4 (Marilu)

Luiz Gonzaga's song '3 X 4 (Marilu)' is a poignant expression of homesickness and longing for one's roots. The lyrics tell the story of a person who is struggling to adapt to a new place, far from their homeland. The protagonist, addressing Marilu, confesses that they are slowly dying inside due to the overwhelming nostalgia for their native land. This sentiment is encapsulated in the line, 'Tô morrendo aos tiquinhos, Marilu,' which translates to 'I'm dying little by little, Marilu.' The use of the diminutive 'aos tiquinhos' emphasizes the gradual and painful nature of this emotional decline.

The mention of a '3x4' photograph, a common size for ID photos, serves as a powerful metaphor for the protagonist's connection to their past. Just by looking at Marilu's photo, the protagonist feels a tightening in their heart, symbolizing the emotional strain of being away from home. This small, seemingly insignificant object becomes a vessel for their memories and emotions, highlighting the deep bond they have with their homeland and loved ones.

The song also vividly describes the protagonist's yearning to return to their rural roots. They long to see the cornfields, smell the rain-soaked earth, and dance the baião, a traditional Brazilian dance. These images evoke a sense of simplicity and purity associated with rural life, contrasting sharply with the protagonist's current situation. The desire to 'cheirar teu cangote,' or 'smell your neck,' adds a layer of intimacy and personal connection, underscoring the depth of their longing. Through these vivid descriptions, Luiz Gonzaga captures the universal human experience of homesickness and the powerful pull of one's origins.