O Cio da Terra

The song 'O Cio da Terra' by Pena Branca e Xavantinho is a heartfelt tribute to the agrarian lifestyle and the intimate relationship between humans and the land. The lyrics poetically describe the various stages of agricultural work, from harvesting wheat to extracting the sweetness from sugarcane, and ultimately, nurturing the earth to bring forth its bounty. This song is a celebration of the cyclical nature of farming and the deep connection that farmers have with the soil.

The opening lines, 'Debulhar o trigo, Recolher cada bago do trigo,' evoke the meticulous and labor-intensive process of threshing wheat and collecting each grain. This imagery highlights the dedication and hard work required in farming, as well as the miracle of transforming wheat into bread, a staple of sustenance. The act of 'se fartar de pão' (feasting on bread) symbolizes the reward and fulfillment that comes from this labor.

The second stanza shifts focus to sugarcane, 'Decepar a cana, Recolher a garapa da cana,' illustrating the process of cutting and extracting the juice from the cane. The phrase 'Roubar da cana a doçura do mel' (stealing the sweetness of honey from the cane) adds a layer of sensuality and pleasure, emphasizing the joy and satisfaction derived from the fruits of one's labor. The imagery of 'se lambuzar de mel' (getting smeared with honey) further underscores this sense of indulgence and delight.

The final stanza, 'Afagar a terra, Conhecer os desejos da terra,' speaks to the intimate and almost romantic relationship between the farmer and the land. The 'Cio da terra' (fertile season) represents the earth's readiness to be sown and the promise of new life. 'E fecundar o chão' (and fertilize the ground) encapsulates the essence of this relationship, where the farmer's efforts and the earth's fertility come together to create abundance. This song beautifully captures the essence of rural life, the cycles of nature, and the profound connection between humans and the land they cultivate.