Resposta do Couro de Boi

The song 'Resposta do Couro de Boi' by Palmeira e Biá is a poignant narrative that delves into themes of regret, redemption, and the enduring bond between a father and son. The lyrics tell the story of a son who, in a moment of thoughtlessness and cruelty, expels his elderly father from their home. The father leaves with nothing but a cowhide, symbolizing his humble and destitute state. This act of ingratitude haunts the son, who realizes the gravity of his actions only after his father is gone.

The son’s regret is compounded by the sorrow of his own child, who misses his grandfather and pleads for his return. This plea drives the son to search for his father, only to discover that he has died alone by the riverbank, with the cowhide beside him. The imagery of the cowhide serves as a powerful metaphor for the father's suffering and the son's guilt. The son’s journey to the cemetery, where he arranges for a proper burial and a gravestone that honors his father, marks the beginning of his path to redemption.

In a moment of spiritual revelation, the son experiences a vision of his father in the chapel. The father’s apparition forgives the son, emphasizing the unconditional love and forgiveness that a parent holds for their child. This divine encounter underscores the song’s message that true repentance and the love of a parent can transcend even the deepest wounds. 'Resposta do Couro de Boi' is a touching reminder of the importance of family, the pain of regret, and the healing power of forgiveness.