Samba Enredo 2017 - Quem Nunca Sentiu o Corpo Arrepiar Ao Ver Esse Rio Passar

The song 'Samba Enredo 2017 - Quem Nunca Sentiu o Corpo Arrepiar Ao Ver Esse Rio Passar' by G.R.E.S. Portela (RJ) is a vibrant and emotional tribute to the cultural and spiritual essence of Rio de Janeiro, particularly through the lens of its iconic rivers and the samba tradition. The lyrics invite listeners to experience the profound love and connection that the people of Rio have with their city, especially during the carnival season. This love is depicted as a powerful force that carries hearts through the festivities, symbolizing unity and joy.

The song beautifully intertwines natural imagery with cultural references, painting a picture of a place where poems flow like springs and the blue and white colors of Portela shine brighter than the sky and sea. The mention of historical figures like Paulo, Caetano, and Rufino highlights the deep roots and legacy of the samba tradition. The canoe arriving at the village and the path illuminated by Candeia evoke a sense of journey and discovery, where myths and legends come alive, adding a layer of mystique and allure.

The lyrics also touch on themes of resilience and healing, as the past sorrows are washed away by the river's current. The voices of the pastoras and lavadeiras (female singers and washerwomen) symbolize the collective strength and spirit of the community. The invocation of 'mamãe ora yê yê ô' and the reference to 'axé' (a Yoruba word meaning life force or spiritual energy) emphasize the spiritual dimension of the samba, portraying it as a form of prayer and blessing. The song concludes with a homage to the 'Velha Guarda' (Old Guard) and the neighborhoods of Oswaldo Cruz and Madureira, reinforcing the idea that samba is not just music but a way of life and a form of worship for the people of Portela.

The imagery of the river, the perfume of the flower, and the emotional response of seeing the river pass by encapsulate the deep emotional and spiritual connection that the people of Rio have with their environment and their cultural heritage. This song is a celebration of that connection, inviting everyone to feel the same sense of awe and reverence for the beauty and history of Rio de Janeiro.