Tronco Submerso

In 'Tronco Submerso,' Paulo André Barata crafts a heartfelt ode to his roots and the simple, yet profound, elements of his homeland. The song's lyrics reflect a deep connection to the familiar and the everyday, from the 'chão batido' (beaten ground) to the 'cuia de açaí' (açaí bowl). Barata contrasts these cherished elements with more glamorous, yet distant, symbols like Copacabana and the Eiffel Tower, which he acknowledges but does not sing about. This juxtaposition highlights his preference for the authenticity and warmth of his own experiences over the allure of far-off places.

The song continues to emphasize this theme by mentioning other local symbols such as 'mão de milho' (corn hand) and 'pé de miriti' (miriti tree). These references serve to root the song firmly in the artist's cultural and geographical context. By choosing not to sing about universally recognized icons like Chanel perfumes or the blue skies of Tennessee, Barata underscores his commitment to celebrating the unique beauty of his own environment. This choice is a powerful statement about the value of local culture and the importance of staying true to one's origins.

In the final verse, Barata offers an apology for his 'canto agreste' (rustic song), which is 'nutrido do jambu' (nourished by jambu) and 'manchado de tijuco e de capim' (stained with mud and grass). He likens his verse to a 'tosco tronco submerso' (rough submerged log) in a nameless river, a metaphor that captures the raw, unpolished nature of his art. This imagery evokes a sense of humility and authenticity, suggesting that true beauty lies in the unrefined and the overlooked. Through this song, Barata invites listeners to appreciate the richness of their own surroundings and to find poetry in the everyday moments that define their lives.