Ei-los Que Partem

Manuel Freire's song "Ei-los Que Partem" poignantly captures the emotional and physical journey of those who leave their homeland in search of a better life. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of both young and old individuals embarking on this journey, driven by the hope of finding fortune in foreign lands. The repetition of the phrase "Ei-los que partem" (There they go) emphasizes the continuous and collective nature of this migration, highlighting that it is a shared experience across generations.

The song delves into the emotional turmoil faced by these travelers. With "olhos molhados" (wet eyes) and "coração triste" (sad heart), Freire underscores the sorrow and longing that accompany their departure. Despite the sadness, there is a glimmer of hope, symbolized by the "esperança em riste" (hope held high) and "sonhos dourados" (golden dreams). This duality of emotions reflects the complex reality of migration, where the promise of a better future is intertwined with the pain of leaving behind loved ones and familiar surroundings.

Freire also touches on the uncertainty of the outcome of this journey. The lyrics suggest that some may return "ricos ou não" (rich or not), bringing back stories of their experiences. The line "onde o suor se fez em pão" (where sweat turned into bread) speaks to the hard work and sacrifices made in the pursuit of a better life. However, the song also leaves open the possibility that some may never return, adding a layer of poignancy to the narrative. Through its evocative lyrics, "Ei-los Que Partem" captures the essence of the migrant experience, blending hope, sorrow, and uncertainty in a powerful and relatable way.