Deus do Barro
Petrúcio Amorim
The Divine Craftsmanship in 'Deus do Barro'
Petrúcio Amorim's song 'Deus do Barro' delves into the profound connection between divine creation and human craftsmanship. The lyrics begin by referencing the biblical story of God creating man in His own image, using clay as the medium. This metaphor of God molding humanity from clay symbolizes the intimate and hands-on nature of creation, emphasizing the importance of faith and hope in the process. The act of giving life through a 'sopro de vida' (breath of life) highlights the divine spark that animates all living beings, suggesting that creation is an act of love and faith.
The song then shifts to celebrate the work of Mestre Vitalino, a renowned Brazilian folk artist known for his clay figurines. By drawing a parallel between God's creation of man and Vitalino's creation of clay figures, Amorim elevates the artist's work to a divine level. The simplicity and authenticity of Vitalino's art are portrayed as his path to greatness and immortality. This comparison underscores the idea that true artistry, much like divine creation, requires faith and a deep connection to the material—clay, in this case. The repeated line 'Pra fazer com amor é preciso fé' (To create with love, faith is needed) reinforces this notion.
The song's chorus, 'Amassa com a mão amassa,' encourages the listener to engage in the tactile and meditative process of molding clay. It lists various figures that can be created, from a dentist to a horse, illustrating the boundless possibilities that clay offers. The final line, 'Se Deus é um Vitalino, Vitalino é Deus do barro,' blurs the line between the divine and the human, suggesting that in the act of creation, humans can touch the divine. This powerful message celebrates the transformative power of art and the sacredness of creation in everyday life.