Trepa no coqueiro
Ney Matogrosso
The Mischievous Adventures of Maria: A Tropical Tale
Ney Matogrosso's song 'Trepa no coqueiro' is a playful and rhythmic piece that captures the essence of Brazilian culture with its vibrant imagery and catchy melody. The song's title, which translates to 'Climb the Coconut Tree,' sets the stage for a lively narrative that unfolds through its lyrics. The repetitive and rhythmic lines 'Oi, trepa no coqueiro, tira coco, Gipi-gipi, nheco-nheco, no coqueiro oi-li-rá!' evoke a sense of traditional Brazilian folk music, often characterized by its playful and communal nature.
The song tells the story of Maria, a young and carefree woman whose actions cause concern for her parents. The lyrics 'Papai, cadê Maria? Maria foi passear! Os passeios de Maria Faz papai e mamãe chorar!' highlight the worry and frustration of Maria's parents as she goes on her adventures. This narrative reflects a common theme in many cultures where the younger generation's desire for freedom and exploration clashes with the older generation's expectations and concerns.
Maria is described as 'moça nova, solteira, não tem juízo,' which means 'a young, single girl without judgment.' This characterization of Maria as a free-spirited and somewhat reckless individual adds a layer of humor and light-heartedness to the song. The repeated mention of her 'passeios' or outings, which 'só podem dar prejuízo' (can only cause trouble), underscores the playful tension between Maria's youthful exuberance and the more conservative values of her parents. Through its lively rhythm and engaging narrative, 'Trepa no coqueiro' captures the spirit of youthful rebellion and the timeless generational divide.