Verde
Oswaldo Montenegro
The Enigmatic Allure of Green in 'Verde' by Oswaldo Montenegro
Oswaldo Montenegro's song 'Verde' is a poetic exploration of the color green and its multifaceted symbolism. The lyrics delve into the various manifestations of green in nature and human experience, portraying it as a color that embodies both the tangible and the mystical. Montenegro uses green as a metaphor for life, growth, and the inexplicable beauty that surrounds us. The repeated references to 'doida cor' (crazy color) and 'doido amor' (crazy love) suggest an admiration for the irrational and the spontaneous aspects of existence, which green seems to encapsulate perfectly.
The song's imagery is rich and evocative, with mentions of 'folha desabada' (fallen leaf), 'hortelã dos chás' (mint of teas), and 'doce maçã da saúde' (sweet apple of health). These elements highlight the natural world's simplicity and complexity, emphasizing green's role in both the mundane and the magical. The 'olhos verdes de quem vê' (green eyes of those who see) serve as a recurring motif, symbolizing perception and the unique way individuals experience the world. This suggests that green is not just a color but a lens through which one can view life's wonders.
Montenegro's lyrical style is both logical and whimsical, blending the 'lógica das coisas' (logic of things) with the 'mágica das coisas' (magic of things). This duality reflects the human condition, where reason and emotion coexist, often without clear boundaries. The song invites listeners to embrace the beauty of the unknown and the unexplainable, much like the color green itself, which can be both soothing and invigorating. 'Verde' ultimately celebrates the harmony between nature and human perception, urging us to find joy in the simple yet profound aspects of life.