Algodão

Luiz Gonzaga's song 'Algodão' is a heartfelt tribute to the hardworking farmers of Brazil's northeastern sertão region. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the daily struggles and triumphs of these agricultural workers, who labor tirelessly in the cotton fields. The opening lines, 'Bate a enxada no chão / Limpa o pé de algodão,' evoke the physical effort and dedication required to cultivate cotton, a crop that is both demanding and rewarding. Gonzaga emphasizes the need for strength, resilience, and bravery, qualities that are often associated with the sertanejo, or people of the sertão.

The song also highlights the cyclical nature of agricultural life, where hard work and perseverance eventually lead to the 'tempo rico da colheita,' or the rich harvest season. This period is depicted as a time of joy and celebration, where the fruits of labor are finally realized. The imagery of the worker calling his family and singing joyfully through the fields underscores the communal and familial aspects of rural life. It is a moment of collective triumph and shared happiness, a stark contrast to the arduous toil that precedes it.

Gonzaga's reference to cotton as 'ouro branco,' or white gold, underscores its economic importance to the region and the country. The song not only celebrates the crop itself but also the prosperity and happiness it brings to the people. By calling on the 'Sertanejo do norte' to plant cotton, Gonzaga is both honoring their contribution and encouraging continued cultivation. The song serves as a reminder of the vital role that agriculture plays in enriching the nation and the lives of its people, making it a poignant and uplifting anthem for the rural communities of Brazil.