P.U.T.A
Mulamba
A Cry for Justice: The Raw Power of Mulamba's 'P.U.T.A'
Mulamba's song 'P.U.T.A' is a powerful and raw anthem that delves deep into the struggles and injustices faced by women, particularly in Brazil. The lyrics are a poignant narrative of pain, resilience, and a call for justice. The song opens with a metaphor of rebirth from the ashes, likening the strength of women to that of a phoenix rising. This imagery sets the tone for the rest of the song, emphasizing the cyclical nature of suffering and renewal. The reference to 'guerreiras' (warriors) and 'feiticeiras' (witches) who are now derogatorily called 'P.U.T.A' (a derogatory term for women) highlights the historical and ongoing oppression of women.
The song vividly describes the fear and danger that women face daily. The lines 'Deus, que não seja hoje o meu dia' (God, let today not be my day) and 'Meu corpo é minha pressa' (My body is my hurry) capture the constant anxiety and urgency women feel to protect themselves. The narrative of a woman being assaulted and the indifference of society ('nem vai dar manchete' - it won't even make the headlines) underscores the systemic neglect and normalization of violence against women. The song also touches on the betrayal by those who should protect ('Painho quis de janta eu' - Daddy wanted me for dinner), illustrating the pervasive nature of abuse.
Mulamba's 'P.U.T.A' is not just a lament but a fierce declaration of resistance. The repeated cries for 'socorro' (help) and the determination to fight back ('Te arranco o pau com a boca' - I'll rip your dick off with my mouth) reflect a deep-seated anger and a refusal to be silenced. The song challenges societal norms and calls for a shift in perspective, questioning what would happen if the roles were reversed ('E se mudasse esse ponto de vista / E o falo fosse a vítima' - And if we changed this point of view / And the phallus was the victim). The closing lines, with their stark imagery of death and struggle, leave a lasting impact, urging listeners to confront the harsh realities faced by women and to join the fight for justice and equality.