The Fleeting Nature of Dreams: Analyzing Marisa Monte's 'Ilusão'

Marisa Monte's song 'Ilusão' delves into the ephemeral nature of dreams and the regret that often accompanies missed opportunities. The lyrics tell the story of someone who once had a beautiful illusion or dream but didn't know how to handle it. This lack of action or understanding led to the dream slipping away, leaving the protagonist in a state of sorrow and longing. The repetition of the phrase 'não soube o que fazer' (didn't know what to do) underscores the sense of helplessness and confusion that often accompanies lost chances.

The song's melancholic tone is further emphasized by the recurring question, 'Por que eu a deixei?' (Why did I let it go?). This rhetorical question highlights the internal conflict and self-blame that the protagonist feels. The heartache is palpable as the protagonist's heart 'chora todos os dias' (cries every day) at the gate, symbolizing a constant state of waiting and yearning for what was lost. The gate can be seen as a metaphor for the barrier between the protagonist's current reality and the happiness that the lost dream represented.

In the latter part of the song, the protagonist reflects on the fact that they left behind everything they wanted because they didn't allow themselves to try and live the dream happily. This reflection brings a sense of self-awareness and regret, as the protagonist realizes that their own inaction was the cause of their current sorrow. The song ends on a poignant note, with the protagonist still grappling with the question of why they let the dream go, encapsulating the universal human experience of regret and the longing for second chances.

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  1. Cantinho Escondido
  2. Vento Sardo
  3. Depois
  4. Ao Meu Redor
  5. Maria de Verdade
  6. Mais Uma Vez
  7. A Primeira Pedra
  8. Vai Saber?
  9. Nada Tudo
  10. Elegante Amanhecer
View all Marisa Monte songs

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