Bem Leve

Marisa Monte's song "Bem Leve" is a poetic exploration of lightness, both in a physical and metaphorical sense. The lyrics are rich with imagery and wordplay, creating a tapestry of meanings that invite the listener to ponder the deeper significance of seemingly simple elements. The repetition of phrases like "bem leve leve" (very light) and "releve" (relieve) suggests a theme of letting go and finding ease in life. This lightness is contrasted with the weight of words and objects, such as wood, which are mentioned throughout the song.

The song's references to different types of wood—Imbuia, Cerejeira, Jacarandá, Peroba, Pinho, Jatobá, Cabreúva, Garapera—serve as metaphors for the various stages and experiences of life. Wood, a natural and enduring material, symbolizes strength and resilience, yet it also carries the weight of history and memory. The imagery of words falling to the ground like wood, and the mention of a "caixão" (coffin), adds a layer of existential reflection, suggesting that our words and actions leave lasting imprints, much like the rings of a tree.

Marisa Monte's musical style, known for its blend of Brazilian popular music with elements of samba, bossa nova, and contemporary influences, enhances the lyrical content of "Bem Leve." The song's gentle melody and rhythmic flow mirror the theme of lightness and the natural ebb and flow of life. Monte's soothing voice and the song's acoustic arrangement create an atmosphere of introspection and calm, encouraging the listener to reflect on the balance between lightness and weight in their own lives.