Era Rei Eu Sou Escravo

Milton Nascimento's song "Era Rei Eu Sou Escravo" is a powerful narrative that delves into the harrowing experience of being uprooted from one's homeland and forced into slavery. The lyrics poignantly contrast the past and present states of the protagonist, who was once a king in his native land but has now been reduced to a slave in a foreign territory. The repetition of the lines "Era rei e sou escravo, era livre e sou mandado" ("I was a king and now I am a slave, I was free and now I am commanded") emphasizes the drastic change in his circumstances and the loss of autonomy that comes with enslavement.

The song also highlights the deep connection to one's roots and the indomitable spirit that persists despite physical bondage. The protagonist clings to the memories of his homeland, the love for his family, and the cultural heritage that defines him. These memories serve as a source of inner strength and a reminder of his true identity. The lyrics "A memória vem e salva, a memória vem e guarda" ("Memory comes and saves, memory comes and preserves") suggest that while his captors can control his body, they cannot take away his soul and the essence of who he is.

Ultimately, the song is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the belief in eventual freedom. Despite the suffering and cries, the protagonist holds onto the hope that he will regain his freedom and reclaim his rightful place as a king. The concluding lines of the song assert a powerful defiance against the oppressors, declaring that no matter the circumstances, his spirit remains unbroken and his identity intact.