Som de Cristal
Marante
The Shattered Illusions of 'Som de Cristal'
Marante's song 'Som de Cristal' paints a vivid picture of a night at a notorious nightclub, where the atmosphere is filled with the sounds of various instruments and the revelry of bohemians. The 'Som de Cristal' (Sound of Crystal) refers to the sharp, clear, and perhaps fragile nature of the music that fills the air. This setting is not just a backdrop but a character in itself, representing a place of escape and moral ambiguity.
The narrative takes a dramatic turn when the protagonist's wife unexpectedly enters the nightclub. This moment of shock and realization is pivotal, as it reveals the wife's desperation and disillusionment. Tired of waiting alone at home, she decides to abandon her role as a 'woman honrada' (honorable woman) and joins the nightlife, symbolized by the 'mariposas' (moths) that frequent the club. Her transformation from a devoted wife to a 'mulher da rua' (woman of the street) underscores the theme of broken expectations and the harsh realities of neglected relationships.
The song delves into themes of betrayal, loneliness, and the societal pressures on women to maintain their honor. The protagonist's reflection on his wife's decision highlights his own culpability in her transformation. The 'Som de Cristal' thus becomes a metaphor for the fragile nature of their relationship and the shattering of their domestic life. Marante's storytelling, combined with the evocative musical setting, creates a poignant commentary on the consequences of emotional neglect and the search for identity and belonging in a world of moral complexities.