Check-Up (Versão Censurada)
Raul Seixas
Navigating Madness: Raul Seixas' Surreal Check-Up
Raul Seixas' song "Check-Up (Versão Censurada)" is a vivid exploration of mental health, societal pressures, and the surreal nature of reality. The lyrics open with the artist conducting a 'check-up' on his situation, which leads him to revisit the whimsical and chaotic world of "Alice in Wonderland." This reference sets the tone for the song, suggesting a journey through a distorted reality where logic is turned on its head. The mention of "A Clockwork Orange" and planting its peel in his head further emphasizes the theme of mental disarray and the impact of consuming disturbing or challenging media on one's psyche.
The second verse delves into the use of medication to cope with this chaotic mental state. Seixas lists various tranquilizers and antidepressants, such as Diempax, Valium 10, and Triptanol 25, painting a picture of someone heavily reliant on pharmaceuticals to achieve a semblance of peace. This reliance on medication highlights the struggle to maintain mental stability in a world that feels increasingly unmanageable. The repetition of taking these pills at two in the morning and the phrase "almost in peace" underscores the ongoing battle for mental tranquility.
The recurring line, "E a chuva promete não deixar vestígio..." ("And the rain promises not to leave a trace..."), serves as a metaphor for cleansing and erasure. Rain often symbolizes renewal and washing away the past, but in this context, it suggests a desire to erase the chaos and confusion without leaving any evidence behind. This longing for a clean slate, free from the burdens of mental turmoil and societal expectations, encapsulates the song's core message. Raul Seixas uses surreal imagery and personal vulnerability to convey the complexities of navigating mental health in a bewildering world.