Desculpe o Auê
Rita Lee
A Turbulent Apology: Understanding 'Desculpe o Auê' by Rita Lee
Rita Lee's song 'Desculpe o Auê' is a heartfelt apology wrapped in a catchy melody. The title itself, which translates to 'Sorry for the Commotion,' sets the tone for the song's theme of regret and reconciliation. The lyrics reveal a narrator who acknowledges their mistakes, driven by jealousy, and expresses deep remorse for causing emotional turmoil. The repeated phrase 'Foi ciúme, sim' ('It was jealousy, yes') underscores the root cause of the conflict, while the actions described—hunger strikes, guerrillas, mutiny—are hyperbolic metaphors for the extreme measures taken in the heat of the moment.
The song's chorus, 'Desculpe o auê, eu não queria magoar você' ('Sorry for the commotion, I didn't mean to hurt you'), is a direct plea for forgiveness. The narrator's admission of losing their head ('perdi a cabeça') and the subsequent request to 'esqueça' ('forget it') highlight a desire to move past the incident and mend the relationship. This emotional vulnerability is a hallmark of Rita Lee's songwriting, often blending personal introspection with broader human experiences.
In the latter part of the song, the narrator vows to change their ways, indicating a willingness to leave if necessary ('Da próxima vez eu me mando'). However, they also express the immense value they place on the relationship, promising grand gestures like stealing the rings of Saturn to prove their love. This mix of self-awareness and romantic idealism is characteristic of Lee's style, which often combines wit, emotion, and a touch of whimsy. 'Desculpe o Auê' ultimately captures the complexities of love, jealousy, and the quest for forgiveness, resonating with anyone who has navigated the turbulent waters of a passionate relationship.