Quando Eu Morri

Raul Seixas' song "Quando Eu Morri" is a profound exploration of existential themes, personal transformation, and the struggle for self-understanding. The lyrics recount a metaphorical death and resurrection that the artist experienced in December 1972. This period of his life is marked by a deep introspection and a quest to piece together the fragments of his shattered psyche. The mention of a psychiatrist advising him to force his way back to life suggests a battle with mental health issues, possibly exacerbated by his use of LSD, which he eventually stops taking to heal his wounds.

The imagery in the song is vivid and surreal, reflecting Seixas' psychedelic experiences. He describes a vision of Jimi Hendrix playing distorted clouds, a symbol of the chaotic and otherworldly nature of his inner turmoil. The transition from a heavenly vision to a hellish reality underscores the duality of his experience, where moments of clarity are interspersed with intense fear and confusion. The nights described as having "garras de aço" (steel claws) cutting him into pieces symbolize the relentless and painful process of self-reconstruction he undergoes each day.

Seixas also touches on the paradox of life and death, suggesting that surviving such an ordeal might be a stroke of luck. The song ends on a note of resignation and acceptance, where he finds solace in the fleeting moments of desire and forgetfulness. This reflects a broader commentary on the human condition, where understanding and meaning are often elusive, and the journey towards self-discovery is fraught with pain and uncertainty. Raul Seixas, known for his eclectic style and philosophical lyrics, uses this song to delve deep into the psyche, offering listeners a raw and unfiltered glimpse into his personal struggles and existential musings.