Vida de Pescador
Matogrosso & Mathias
The Simple Yet Challenging Life of a Fisherman
“Vida de Pescador” by Matogrosso & Mathias paints a vivid picture of the life of a fisherman, blending the simplicity of rural living with the inherent challenges of the trade. The song opens with the protagonist expressing a desire to escape the hustle and bustle of city life by building a small ranch by the river. This setting serves as a sanctuary where he can fish and momentarily forget his financial troubles, symbolized by being 'up to his neck' in debt at the bank.
The lyrics highlight the daily struggles and routines of a fisherman. From waking up at dawn to dig for worms to using them as bait for catching fish, the song captures the labor-intensive nature of the job. The fisherman’s day is filled with various tasks, such as preparing bait and setting traps, all while dealing with the elements. The repeated line, “Ai, como é difícil a vida do pescador,” underscores the hardships faced, whether it’s getting the fishing line tangled at night or burning under the sun during the day.
Despite the difficulties, the song also celebrates the camaraderie and simple pleasures of this lifestyle. The fisherman calls upon a friend, Anizião, to help with net fishing, and they share moments of abundance and humor, like catching an unexpected variety of creatures. The song concludes with a sense of contentment, as the fisherman returns to his humble ranch for a hearty meal and a game of truco, a popular card game, before resting for another day of fishing. This narrative not only highlights the resilience and resourcefulness required in the life of a fisherman but also the joy found in simplicity and community.