Índios

Renato Russo's song "Índios" is a poignant reflection on lost innocence, unfulfilled dreams, and the disillusionment with the modern world. The lyrics are a heartfelt lament for a time when things were simpler and more genuine. Russo uses the metaphor of gold given away in the name of friendship to express the feeling of being deceived and taken advantage of. This gold symbolizes trust and purity, which have been squandered in a world that often values material wealth over genuine human connection.

The song also delves into the complexities of faith and understanding. Russo questions the nature of belief and the contradictions inherent in religious teachings, particularly the concept of a single God being three entities and the idea of this God being killed by those who worship Him. This reflects a broader sense of confusion and frustration with the way the world operates, where the sacred is often profaned, and the innocent are punished.

Throughout the song, there is a recurring theme of longing for a return to a more innocent and pure state, symbolized by the reference to the "most beautiful tribe of the most beautiful Indians." This imagery evokes a sense of nostalgia for a time and place where people lived in harmony with nature and each other, untainted by the corruption and greed of modern society. The repeated line "Nos deram espelhos e vimos um mundo doente" (They gave us mirrors and we saw a sick world) underscores the idea that self-reflection has revealed the deep flaws and sickness within our society.

The song's emotional depth is further highlighted by Russo's personal confessions of seeking danger and bleeding alone, which he did in an attempt to bring someone back to him. This personal sacrifice and the realization that only one person truly understands him from beginning to end add a layer of intimate vulnerability to the song. Ultimately, "Índios" is a powerful meditation on the loss of innocence, the search for meaning, and the yearning for a better, more authentic world.