Saudade Carinhosa
Mari Fernandez
The Unforgiving Sting of Saudade
Mari Fernandez's song "Saudade Carinhosa" delves into the complex emotions of heartbreak and regret. The term 'saudade' in Portuguese is often used to describe a deep emotional state of nostalgic longing for something or someone that one loves and is now lost. In this song, Fernandez contrasts the tender care she once provided to her partner with the harsh reality of saudade, which is anything but gentle.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship where one partner prioritized physical satisfaction over emotional connection. The protagonist, who once offered genuine affection, now steps back, allowing the other to face the consequences of their actions. The repeated lines, "A saudade não é carinhosa, como eu era pra você" (Saudade is not affectionate, like I was to you), emphasize the stark difference between the warmth she provided and the cold, unrelenting nature of saudade.
Fernandez's message is clear: those who fail to learn from love will inevitably learn through pain. The song's refrain, "Quem não aprende no amor, só aprende na dor" (Who doesn't learn in love, only learns through pain), underscores this sentiment. The protagonist's decision to let her partner experience the harshness of saudade serves as a poignant reminder of the emotional consequences of neglecting true affection. The song's melancholic yet empowering tone resonates with anyone who has experienced the bittersweet sting of lost love and the inevitable growth that follows.