Terra Bo Sabe

Os Tubarões' song "Terra Bo Sabe" delves into the hardships and resilience of Cape Verdean fishermen. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the daily struggles faced by these men, who work tirelessly to make a living. The phrase "Tera bo sabê ké mistid um xis tantu" suggests that the land knows the mix of hardships and efforts required for each man to live like a human being. This line sets the tone for the rest of the song, emphasizing the connection between the people and their land.

The song continues to describe the harsh realities of life for these fishermen. The imagery of the land being "rijo, sek y frok" (hard, dry, and cold) reflects the tough conditions they endure. The reference to "karise na smentera d'jent" (caresses in the seedbed of people) symbolizes the nurturing yet challenging environment in which they live. The lyrics also touch on the economic struggles, with mentions of working without proper compensation, dealing with illness, and the lack of education for their children. The line "Amdjer largod, nun vida dur" (women left behind, a hard life) highlights the impact on families, particularly women who are left to fend for themselves.

Despite these challenges, the song also speaks to the resilience and determination of the fishermen. The repeated references to the sea and fishing, such as "nos mar e péska" (our sea and fishing) and "di luarada na mar" (moonlit nights at sea), underscore their deep connection to their livelihood. The imagery of "Bote, brose y linha" (boat, net, and line) and "Un pexe y mei pa kada un" (one and a half fish for each) illustrates the meager rewards of their labor. Yet, the mention of "fidj na kaza" (children at home) serves as a reminder of their motivation to persevere for the sake of their families.