Minha Viola

Raul Seixas' song 'Minha Viola' is a poignant ode to the solace and companionship found in music, particularly through the instrument of the viola. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a journey, both physical and emotional, where the viola serves as a constant companion and source of comfort. The song begins with the narrator expressing the deep connection he has with his viola, which consoles him in times of sorrow. The repetitive 'Dilim, dilim, dilim' mimics the sound of the viola, emphasizing its presence and importance in his life.

The narrative then shifts to the narrator's departure from his homeland, the sertão, a term that refers to the arid backlands of Brazil. This departure is marked by a sense of loss and nostalgia, with the viola being the only possession of personal significance, a gift from his father. As he travels through various landscapes, the viola becomes a symbol of his roots and memories, helping him to recall and cherish his homeland. The act of playing the viola is not just a musical endeavor but a way to keep his connection to his past alive.

The song also delves into themes of solitude and longing. Each note played on the viola is described as a 'gemido' (moan), each moan representing a piece of his saudade, a deep emotional state of nostalgic longing for something or someone that one loves and is lost. This saudade is so profound that it leads to a sense of being lost in eternal solitude. Yet, despite this melancholy, the viola also brings moments of joy and a sense of spiritual connection, as indicated in the final verses where the narrator envisions entering heaven with his viola when his time comes. This duality of the viola as both a source of sorrow and solace encapsulates the complex emotional landscape of the song.

Raul Seixas, known for his eclectic style and philosophical lyrics, uses 'Minha Viola' to explore the human condition through the lens of music and memory. The song resonates with anyone who has experienced the bittersweet nature of nostalgia and the comfort of familiar melodies in times of distress.