Com Mais de Trinta
Marcos Valle
The Rebellion of Youth: A Critique of Authority in 'Com Mais de Trinta'
Marcos Valle's song 'Com Mais de Trinta' is a powerful critique of authority and societal norms, encapsulated in the repeated warning, 'Não confie em ninguém com mais de trinta anos' (Don't trust anyone over thirty). This phrase reflects a common sentiment among the youth during the 1960s and 1970s, a period marked by significant social and political upheaval. The song suggests a deep mistrust of older generations, who are seen as out of touch and overly controlling. Valle extends this mistrust to those with wealth ('mais de trinta cruzeiros') and those in positions of power, such as teachers and directors, who are depicted as imposing their outdated values and control over the younger generation's lives.
The lyrics also delve into the personal philosophy of the narrator, who measures life by actions and dreams rather than material possessions or societal expectations. This perspective is a direct challenge to the conventional wisdom of the older generation, which often prioritizes stability and conformity. The narrator's journey through 'tempo e espaço' (time and space) symbolizes a quest for personal freedom and self-discovery, unbound by the constraints imposed by society. The imagery of creating a 'novo mundo na fumaça' (new world in the smoke) suggests a vision of a better, more liberated future, even amidst the pollution and chaos of the present.
Valle's song is not just a critique but also a call to action for the younger generation to forge their own paths and create their own values. The repeated refrain 'Não confie em ninguém' (Don't trust anyone) serves as a rallying cry for independence and self-reliance. By rejecting the authority and values of those 'com mais de trinta,' the song encourages listeners to question the status quo and envision a new world where they can live authentically and freely.