Fera Ferida
Maria Bethânia
The Wounded Beast: A Journey Through Heartbreak and Resilience
Maria Bethânia's song 'Fera Ferida' is a poignant exploration of heartbreak, resilience, and the scars left by love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who has endured significant emotional turmoil, likening themselves to a wounded beast. The opening lines, 'Acabei com tudo, escapei com vida,' suggest a dramatic end to a relationship, where the protagonist barely escapes with their life, both metaphorically and literally. The imagery of torn clothes and dreams underscores the depth of their suffering and the violent nature of their departure.
The song delves into the emotional aftermath of this tumultuous relationship. The protagonist describes themselves as a 'domesticado esquece o risco,' a once-wild animal that has been tamed and now faces the consequences of letting their guard down. This metaphor highlights the vulnerability and betrayal they feel, having been deceived and led astray by their lover. Despite the pain, there is an acknowledgment of the heart's capacity to forgive, even if it cannot forget, as seen in the lines 'Eu sei, o coração perdoa, mas não esquece à toa.'
As the song progresses, the protagonist reflects on their journey of self-discovery and healing. They describe themselves as a 'bicho livre, sem rumo, sem laços,' a free animal without direction or ties, emphasizing their sense of isolation and aimlessness. The search for solace and companionship is a recurring theme, as they stumble through life seeking 'um abrigo, uma ajuda, um lugar, um amigo.' The recurring imagery of flowers that couldn't withstand constant storms symbolizes the fragility of beauty and happiness in the face of relentless adversity. Ultimately, the song concludes with a resigned acceptance of their wounded state, 'Sou fera ferida no corpo, na alma e no coração,' encapsulating the enduring impact of their emotional scars.