Beijo De Saudade

Mariza's song 'Beijo De Saudade' is a poignant ode to longing and connection, weaving together themes of nostalgia, love, and the deep ties to one's homeland. The lyrics are a heartfelt plea to the sacred waves of the Tejo River, asking for permission to bestow a kiss upon its waters. This kiss is not just any kiss; it is imbued with sorrow ('mágoa') and longing ('saudade'), emotions that are deeply rooted in the Portuguese and Cape Verdean cultures. The kiss is meant to be carried by the river to the sea, and from the sea to the singer's homeland, Cape Verde.

The imagery of the Tejo River, with its 'crystal-clear waves,' serves as a powerful metaphor for the journey of emotions and memories. The river becomes a conduit for the singer's feelings, bridging the physical distance between her and her homeland. The reference to the 'mouth of a girl' personifies the river, adding a layer of intimacy and tenderness to the act of kissing the water. This personification underscores the deep emotional connection the singer feels towards the river and, by extension, her homeland.

Cape Verde is described as a 'small land,' a 'child of the ocean and the sky,' emphasizing its unique and cherished place in the singer's heart. The repetition of the phrase 'terra da minha mãe, terra dos meus amores' (land of my mother, land of my loves) highlights the deep familial and emotional bonds that tie the singer to her homeland. The song also includes verses in Cape Verdean Creole, further emphasizing the cultural and linguistic ties that bind the singer to her roots. The use of Creole adds an authentic and personal touch, making the song a heartfelt tribute to the singer's heritage and the universal experience of longing for one's homeland.