Ilegal, Imoral ou Engorda (cover de Roberto Carlos)
Macanjo
Navigating Desires and Societal Constraints in 'Ilegal, Imoral ou Engorda'
The song 'Ilegal, Imoral ou Engorda,' originally by Roberto Carlos and covered by Macanjo, delves into the internal conflict between personal desires and societal expectations. The lyrics express a sense of frustration and confusion as the protagonist grapples with the limitations imposed by social norms. The recurring theme is the struggle to reconcile what one enjoys with what is deemed acceptable by society, encapsulated in the refrain that questions whether everything pleasurable is illegal, immoral, or fattening.
The protagonist's lament about being 'condenado a fazer o que não quero' (condemned to do what I don't want) highlights the pressure to conform. This sentiment is further emphasized by the line 'Se faço alguma coisa sempre alguém vem me dizer que isso ou aquilo não se deve fazer' (If I do something, someone always comes to tell me that this or that shouldn't be done). The song captures the universal experience of feeling restricted by societal rules and the internal debate about whether to adhere to them or follow one's own desires.
The lyrics also touch on the protagonist's attempts to navigate these constraints by adopting a more cautious and reserved demeanor. However, the allure of certain pleasures remains strong, leading to moments of introspection and questioning. The vivid imagery of a casual encounter and the temptation to indulge in simple joys, like enjoying a view from a terrace, underscores the tension between personal freedom and societal judgment. Ultimately, the song resonates with anyone who has ever felt the weight of societal expectations and the desire to break free from them.