Severina Cooper (it's Not Mole Não)
Paulo Diniz
Dreams of Escaping Poverty: Paulo Diniz's 'Severina Cooper (it's Not Mole Não)'
Paulo Diniz's song 'Severina Cooper (it's Not Mole Não)' is a vivid portrayal of a man's dreams of escaping poverty and achieving a better life. The lyrics are filled with colorful imagery and a mix of humor and desperation, reflecting the protagonist's desire to break free from his current circumstances. The song opens with the protagonist planning to buy a rattlesnake at the market, adorn himself with rings, and learn to dance rock, symbolizing his aspirations to transform his life and adopt a more glamorous lifestyle.
The protagonist's journey continues as he imagines traveling to New York, buying flashy satin clothes, and returning home wealthy and sophisticated. This fantasy is a stark contrast to his current life of misery, represented by the jumento (donkey) that has caused him embarrassment. The repeated phrase 'It's not mole não' (It's not easy) underscores the difficulty of achieving these dreams, while 'Don't have condição' (I don't have the means) highlights the financial barriers he faces.
As the song progresses, the protagonist envisions spending his vacations in Miami with a tall blonde woman, symbolizing the ultimate escape from his life of hardship. He dreams of impressing others at a discotheque and showing that even a 'matuto' (country bumpkin) can succeed. The reference to Frank Sinatra and the idea of not giving 'colher de chá' (special treatment) further emphasize his determination to rise above his circumstances and be recognized for his talents. Through its humorous yet poignant lyrics, 'Severina Cooper (it's Not Mole Não)' captures the universal longing for a better life and the challenges faced in the pursuit of dreams.