Belém, Pará, Brasil

Nilson Chaves' song "Belém, Pará, Brasil" is a poignant commentary on the cultural and environmental degradation facing the city of Belém in the state of Pará, Brazil. The lyrics, penned by Edmar Rocha, lament the modernization and commercialization that threaten to erase the city's rich heritage. The song opens with a stark image of the iconic Ver-o-Peso market being replaced by a shopping center and the historic Palacete Pinho being demolished for a condominium. These lines highlight the tension between preserving cultural landmarks and the relentless march of urban development.

The song also addresses the broader issue of how the North of Brazil is perceived and treated by the rest of the country. The lyrics criticize the stereotypes and misconceptions about the region, such as the outdated and offensive notion that indigenous people are cannibals. The song points out the irony that while the North's natural resources are exploited, its people and culture are often ignored or misunderstood. This sentiment is encapsulated in the lines, "Por que ninguém nos leva a sério? Só o nosso minério?" (Why does no one take us seriously? Only our minerals?).

Furthermore, the song touches on the cultural homogenization brought about by globalization. The reference to drinking guaraná when there's no Coca-Cola and the sarcastic remark about hamburgers replacing traditional foods underscore the loss of local identity. The chorus, with its plea for cultural preservation and respect, serves as a rallying cry for the people of Belém and the North to reclaim their heritage and assert their place in the national narrative. The song concludes with a powerful declaration of regional pride, emphasizing that Belém, Pará, and the North are integral parts of Brazil's diverse cultural tapestry.