Cálice

Maria Bethânia's rendition of 'Cálice' is a powerful and poignant protest song that delves deep into the struggles and oppression faced during Brazil's military dictatorship. The title itself is a clever play on words, as 'Cálice' means 'chalice' in Portuguese, but when pronounced, it sounds like 'cale-se,' which means 'shut up.' This dual meaning sets the tone for the song's exploration of censorship and the silencing of dissenting voices.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the pain and frustration experienced by those living under an oppressive regime. The opening lines, 'Como beber dessa bebida amarga / Tragar a dor, engolir a labuta,' speak to the bitterness of life and the difficulty of swallowing the harsh realities of daily existence. The repeated plea, 'Pai, afasta de mim esse cálice / De vinho tinto de sangue,' is a direct reference to Jesus' prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, asking to be spared from suffering. Here, it symbolizes the desire to be freed from the bloodshed and violence inflicted by the dictatorship.

Throughout the song, there is a recurring theme of silence and the struggle to break free from it. Lines like 'Mesmo calada a boca, resta o peito / Silêncio na cidade não se escuta' highlight the internal conflict of wanting to speak out but being forced into silence. The imagery of 'o monstro da lagoa' represents the lurking danger and the ever-present threat of the regime's brutality. The song's climax, with the repeated cries to 'afasta de mim esse cálice,' underscores the desperation and yearning for liberation.

'Cálice' is not just a song; it is a powerful statement against oppression and a call for freedom. It captures the essence of a dark period in Brazilian history and serves as a reminder of the resilience and courage of those who fought against tyranny. Maria Bethânia's emotive delivery adds depth and intensity to the song, making it a timeless anthem for justice and human rights.