A Alma e a Matéria

Marisa Monte's song 'A Alma e a Matéria' is a poetic exploration of the interplay between the spiritual and the physical realms. The lyrics delve into the search for understanding and connection, blending scientific and emotional elements to express a profound contemplation of existence. Monte is known for her melodic voice and her ability to blend various genres, including Brazilian pop, samba, and bossa nova, to create a unique and introspective musical experience.

The song's title, which translates to 'The Soul and the Matter,' sets the stage for a philosophical journey. The lyrics 'Procuro nas coisas vagas / Ciência!' suggest a quest for knowledge in the ambiguous aspects of life, perhaps where science meets the intangible. The act of smiling, which 'moves dozens of muscles,' is used as a metaphor for the effort it takes to express joy, and the complexity behind simple human actions. The imagery of 'atoms choreographing / The grass on the ground' and 'braille skin to read' evokes a sense of wonder at the natural world and the human body, highlighting the intricate dance of life at both the microscopic and sensory levels.

The chorus 'Vem pr'esse mundo / Deus quer nascer' implies a divine desire for existence, a call for the soul to manifest in the material world. The invisible and enchanted connection 'between you and me' speaks to the profound and often unexplainable bonds that form between individuals. The repeated line 'Que a alma aproveita prá ser / A matéria e viver' reinforces the idea that the soul seizes the opportunity to become matter and to experience life, suggesting that our spiritual essence finds purpose and joy in the physical experience.