Homem Com H
Ney Matogrosso
The Bold Assertion of Masculinity in 'Homem Com H'
Ney Matogrosso's song 'Homem Com H' is a vibrant and assertive declaration of masculinity. The repeated phrase 'Porque eu sou é home' (Because I am a man) underscores the central theme of the song, which is the singer's confident proclamation of his manhood. The lyrics are filled with traditional symbols of toughness and bravery, such as the absence of fear ('Nunca vi rastro de cobra / Nem couro de lobisomem' - 'I've never seen a snake's trail / Nor a werewolf's skin') and the readiness to face danger ('Se correr o bicho pega / Se ficar o bicho come' - 'If you run, the beast catches you / If you stay, the beast eats you') which further emphasize the singer's boldness and courage.
The song also touches on societal expectations and the pressure to conform to traditional gender roles. The line 'Quando eu estava pra nascer / De vez em quando eu ouvia / Eu ouvia a mãe dizer / Ai meu Deus como eu queria / Que essa cabra fosse home' (When I was about to be born / Sometimes I heard / I heard my mother say / Oh my God how I wish / That this kid would be a man) reflects the desire for a male child, highlighting the cultural importance placed on masculinity. This expectation is met with the singer's proud response, 'Mamãe aqui estou eu / Sou homem com H' (Mom, here I am / I am a man with a capital M), reinforcing his fulfillment of these societal norms.
Ney Matogrosso, known for his flamboyant and androgynous stage presence, brings an interesting contrast to the song's traditional masculine themes. His performance style often challenges conventional gender norms, adding a layer of irony and complexity to the song. The repeated affirmations of being a 'homem com H' (man with a capital M) can be seen as both a sincere declaration and a playful subversion of rigid gender expectations. This duality makes 'Homem Com H' a rich and multifaceted piece, celebrating masculinity while also inviting listeners to question and explore its boundaries.