Cabocla

The song 'Cabocla' by Madrigal is a poignant tale of love, loss, and longing set against the backdrop of rural life. The term 'cabocla' refers to a woman of mixed Indigenous and European descent in Brazil, often associated with rural areas. The lyrics convey the deep sorrow and abandonment felt by the protagonist after his beloved cabocla leaves him. This departure leaves him in a state of perpetual sadness, unable to forget her love even for a moment. The imagery of the sertão, or the backcountry, emphasizes the isolation and desolation he feels.

The song paints a vivid picture of the protagonist's life after his cabocla's departure. His once cherished home on the mountain now feels strange and filled with the color of saudade, a Portuguese word that encapsulates a deep emotional state of nostalgic longing for something or someone that one loves and is lost. The repeated mention of 'cruelty' highlights the betrayal and emotional pain he endures. The protagonist's plea to the saints for the return of his happiness and love underscores his desperation and the depth of his affection for the cabocla.

In the latter part of the song, the protagonist reveals that his cabocla left him for another man from the city, which he views as the greatest misfortune. He reflects on the fleeting nature of luck and wealth, suggesting that material gains are temporary and cannot replace genuine love and happiness. The song ends with a hopeful yet melancholic note, as he wishes for her to return to the village and share in his simple, rural life once more. 'Cabocla' is a touching exploration of unrequited love, the pain of abandonment, and the enduring hope for reconciliation.