Manga
Mayra Andrade
A Deep Dive into Love: The Essence of 'Manga' by Mayra Andrade
Mayra Andrade's song 'Manga' is a poetic exploration of deep, passionate love. Sung in Cape Verdean Creole, the lyrics convey a yearning for a profound connection with a loved one. The repeated phrases 'Mas txeu, mas fundu' (More, deeper) emphasize the desire for an intense emotional and physical bond. Andrade's use of the word 'fúndia' (to sink) metaphorically suggests a willingness to immerse oneself completely in the relationship, to the point of losing oneself in the other person.
The song's imagery is rich and evocative. Phrases like 'Pa bu nasi di mi un, ku dôs, ku tres bes' (For you to be born from me once, twice, three times) and 'Bu saliva na nha pé, un manga na bu bóka' (Your saliva on my foot, a mango in your mouth) paint a vivid picture of intimacy and sensuality. The mango, a symbol of sweetness and tropical allure, represents the pleasure and satisfaction found in the beloved's presence. This imagery not only highlights the physical aspects of love but also the deep emotional satisfaction it brings.
Andrade's repetition of 'É si ki n gosta di bo, forti n gosta di bo' (This is how I love you, strongly I love you) underscores the intensity and certainty of her feelings. The song also touches on the pain of separation and the longing to bridge the distance between lovers, as seen in lines like 'N krê kebra distánsia' (I want to break the distance). This duality of love's joy and its accompanying sorrow is a universal theme, making 'Manga' a relatable and heartfelt expression of human emotion.