Carinhoso

The song 'Carinhoso,' composed by the legendary Brazilian musician Pixinguinha, is a classic example of early 20th-century Brazilian music, particularly the genre known as choro. The lyrics, which were written by João de Barro, also known as Braguinha, express a deep longing and affection for a beloved who seems to be unaware of the narrator's feelings.

The song's narrator speaks directly to their heart's desire, describing the joy and excitement they feel simply by seeing the object of their affection. The use of phrases like 'my heart beats happy' and 'my eyes keep smiling' personifies the narrator's emotions, emphasizing the profound impact that this person has on them. Despite this joy, there is a sense of unrequited love, as the beloved 'runs away' from the narrator. This creates a poignant contrast between the happiness felt in the beloved's presence and the pain of their indifference or unawareness.

The chorus is a plea for the beloved to recognize the narrator's sincere and caring nature. The narrator invites their love interest to experience the warmth of their affection and to quench the passion that consumes them. The repetition of 'vem' (come) underscores the urgency and desire for closeness. The song ends with a hopeful note, suggesting that the narrator's happiness is contingent upon the reciprocation of their love. 'Carinhoso' is not just a song about love, but also about the vulnerability and courage it takes to express one's feelings openly in the face of potential rejection.