Balada nº 7 - Mané Garrincha

Moacyr Franco's song "Balada nº 7 - Mané Garrincha" is a poignant tribute to the legendary Brazilian footballer, Mané Garrincha. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a once-great athlete reminiscing about his glory days on the field. The song opens with the image of Garrincha's illusions taking the field in an empty stadium, where a crowd of dreams applauds his past achievements. This metaphorical crowd represents the memories and emotions tied to his illustrious career, highlighting the bittersweet nature of nostalgia.

The song delves deeper into the theme of time and its inevitable impact on even the greatest of talents. Franco sings about how other players now replicate Garrincha's moves, but his last goal still lingers in the net, a symbol of his enduring legacy. However, life has placed an offside flag on him, and the game has ended forever. The imagery of his tired legs running to nowhere and the team of time winning the match underscores the harsh reality of aging and the end of an era.

The recurring refrain, "Cadê você, cadê você, você passou," translates to "Where are you, where are you, you passed." This repetition emphasizes the fleeting nature of fame and the passage of time. The song captures the essence of longing and the inevitable decline that comes with age. It is a heartfelt homage to Garrincha, celebrating his contributions to football while acknowledging the transient nature of life and glory. The song's melancholic tone and reflective lyrics resonate with anyone who has experienced the passage of time and the loss of youthful vigor.