Caranguejo

The song 'Caranguejo' by Palavra Cantada is a delightful and whimsical piece that plays with the paradoxical nature of a crab's identity. The lyrics repeatedly state, 'Caranguejo não é peixe, Caranguejo peixe é,' which translates to 'A crab is not a fish, a crab is a fish.' This playful contradiction is further emphasized by the line, 'Caranguejo só é peixe na enchente da maré,' meaning 'A crab is only a fish during the high tide.' This suggests that identity can be fluid and context-dependent, much like how a crab's environment changes with the tides.

The song also incorporates a traditional Brazilian nursery rhyme about a quarrel between a carnation and a rose. This part of the lyrics adds a layer of storytelling and emotional depth, depicting a conflict and subsequent reconciliation. The carnation and the rose, despite their fight, show care for each other, symbolizing the complexities of relationships and the healing power of empathy and compassion.

Musically, the song is engaging and interactive, with instructions for clapping ('Palma, palma, palma'), stomping ('Pé, pé, pé'), and spinning ('Roda, roda, roda'). This invites listeners, especially children, to participate actively, making the song not just a listening experience but a physical and communal activity. Palavra Cantada is known for their educational and entertaining children's music, and 'Caranguejo' is a perfect example of their ability to blend fun with meaningful content, encouraging both play and reflection.