Eu Só Peço a Deus

Mercedes Sosa's song 'Eu Só Peço a Deus' is a heartfelt plea for empathy, justice, and peace. The lyrics, sung in both Portuguese and Spanish, reflect a deep yearning for a world where pain, injustice, and war do not go unnoticed or unchallenged. Sosa, an iconic figure in Latin American folk music, uses her powerful voice to convey a message that transcends borders and languages, calling for a collective awakening to the suffering and injustices that plague humanity.

The repeated refrain, 'Eu só peço a Deus' (I only ask of God), serves as a prayer for sensitivity towards the pain of others. Sosa implores that she not become indifferent to suffering, emphasizing the importance of remaining compassionate and engaged. This plea is particularly poignant in the context of her own life and career, marked by her activism against oppressive regimes in Latin America. Her music often served as a voice for the voiceless, and this song is no exception.

The song also addresses the brutality of war and the innocence it destroys. Sosa describes war as a 'monstro grande' (big monster) that tramples on the innocence of people. This vivid metaphor highlights the devastating impact of conflict on the most vulnerable, urging listeners to recognize and resist the dehumanizing effects of violence. By invoking the image of a monstrous force, Sosa underscores the urgency of combating war and protecting the innocent.

'Eu Só Peço a Deus' is a powerful reminder of the need for empathy, justice, and peace in a world often marred by indifference and violence. Through her evocative lyrics and impassioned delivery, Mercedes Sosa calls on each of us to remain vigilant and compassionate, to fight against injustice, and to strive for a more humane and just world.