Prudência

Maria Bethânia's song 'Prudência' delves into the internal conflict between living a cautious life and the yearning for passion and adventure. The lyrics reflect a deep introspection, where the narrator finds themselves contemplating the value of prudence. They acknowledge that prudence is often touted as the path to a peaceful life, yet they question the true nature of such peace. The tranquility that comes with caution is depicted as devoid of emotion, adventure, and desire, leading to a sense of emptiness and longing for the pleasures of life.

The song further explores the narrator's avoidance of love and intense emotions due to the fear of pain. This fear stems from past experiences of being hurt, which makes them more cautious. However, this avoidance leads to a life of boredom and a lack of mystery, described as a 'dura apatia de um controlador' (hard apathy of a controller). The narrator is caught in a paradox where the safety of prudence results in a dull and unfulfilling existence.

In the chorus, the narrator rejects the notion of prudence, emphasizing that the passions that once led to their loss of control are what shaped their identity. This rejection highlights the importance of embracing life's intense emotions and experiences, despite the risks involved. The song ultimately suggests that a life lived too cautiously may prevent one from truly experiencing the richness of human emotions and the essence of being alive.