A Lei
Raul Seixas
The Anthem of Individual Freedom: Raul Seixas' 'A Lei'
Raul Seixas' song 'A Lei' is a powerful declaration of individual freedom and personal sovereignty. The lyrics emphasize the inherent rights of every human being to think, love, live, and die as they choose. Seixas, a prominent figure in Brazilian rock music, uses his platform to advocate for a society where personal liberty is paramount. The repetition of phrases like 'Todo homem tem direito' (Every man has the right) underscores the universality and inalienability of these freedoms.
The song draws heavily on the philosophy of Thelema, a spiritual belief system developed by Aleister Crowley, which is evident in the line 'Faz o que tu queres, há de ser tudo da lei' (Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law). This phrase encapsulates the core message of the song: the ultimate law is the freedom to do as one wills, provided it does not infringe on the rights of others. Seixas extends this idea to various aspects of life, including travel, expression, work, and love, advocating for a world where individuals are free from societal constraints and governmental restrictions.
'A Lei' also touches on the concept of a 'sociedade alternativa' (alternative society), a utopian vision where these principles of freedom and self-determination are fully realized. This vision is both a critique of existing societal norms and a call to action for listeners to embrace and fight for their personal freedoms. The song's message is both radical and empowering, encouraging individuals to live authentically and resist any forces that seek to limit their autonomy.
Seixas' musical style, characterized by its blend of rock, folk, and Brazilian rhythms, adds a dynamic and engaging backdrop to these profound themes. His passionate delivery and the song's anthemic quality make 'A Lei' not just a song, but a manifesto for personal freedom and a rallying cry for those who dream of a more liberated world.