30 e Tal
Prodigio
The Struggles of Growing Up: A Reflection on Society and Identity
Prodigio's song "30 e Tal" is a poignant reflection on the complexities of growing up and the harsh realities of the world. The artist begins by reminiscing about his youthful idealism, where he believed he could change the world. However, he soon realizes that changing everything is an impossible task, as people are inherently who they are. This realization is coupled with a sense of betrayal, as he notes that while he was taught that mutual support is essential, he often found himself without help when he needed it most. This metaphor of a hand washing another but running out of soap symbolizes the lack of reciprocity and support in society.
The song delves deeper into societal issues, highlighting the hypocrisy and contradictions present in the world. Prodigio criticizes the superficiality of social media, where people like posts they don't genuinely care about, and the historical injustices that have been glossed over or misrepresented. He points out the selective empathy shown towards different tragedies, emphasizing the neglect of African suffering. This critique extends to the erasure and distortion of history, where the true stories of marginalized communities are often ignored or rewritten.
In the chorus, Prodigio rejects the notion of being a "puto de 30 e tal"—a man in his thirties who still behaves immaturely. He stresses the importance of knowing what one wants in life and the dangers of remaining directionless. The song also touches on the societal pressures and contradictions faced by individuals, from the government's contradictory stance on drugs to the shifting norms around gender and identity. Prodigio's message to his mother is a heartfelt promise to continue fighting for a better world, not just for himself but for future generations. The song ends on a hopeful note, with a vow to eventually change the world, despite the challenges.