Pavilhão de Espelhos
Roberta Sá
Reflections of Longing: A Dive into Roberta Sá's 'Pavilhão de Espelhos'
Roberta Sá's 'Pavilhão de Espelhos' is a poignant song that delves into the complex emotions of nostalgia, change, and the enduring nature of certain feelings. The lyrics express a lack of regret for past actions, acknowledging that life moves quickly and both the singer and the subject of the song have changed. This acceptance of change is coupled with the recognition that some emotions, like saudade—a Portuguese term for a deep emotional state of nostalgic longing for something or someone that one cares for—still persist. The song's title, which translates to 'Pavilion of Mirrors,' suggests a place where images are reflected and multiplied, symbolizing the way memories and feelings can be echoed throughout one's life.
The imagery of the song is rich and evocative, painting a picture of the subject as free and ethereal, 'dressed in moon on the cloud,' dancing as if for no one or perhaps just for the singer. This scene conveys a sense of intimacy and personal connection that remains despite the passage of time and the changes that have occurred. The repetition of 'Ainda bem'—meaning 'fortunately' or 'thank goodness'—emphasizes a sense of gratitude that these feelings of affection and connection have not been lost over time.
The song's narrative is one of reflection and confrontation with the past, as the singer has crossed seas and roads to see if the heart of the matter—literally and metaphorically—still beats and pulses. It's a journey of reassurance, seeking to confirm that despite the inevitable transformations life brings, the essence of what once was remains intact. Roberta Sá, known for her melodic Brazilian Popular Music (MPB), delivers this message with a blend of melancholy and hope, capturing the bittersweet nature of looking back while moving forward.