Olhar 43
RPM
The Enigmatic Allure of Forbidden Love in 'Olhar 43'
RPM's song 'Olhar 43' delves into the intoxicating and perilous nature of forbidden love and unrequited desire. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young, introverted man who is utterly captivated by a woman whose allure is both irresistible and dangerous. The opening lines describe her body as 'forbidden fruit,' a metaphor that evokes the biblical story of Adam and Eve, suggesting that she embodies temptation and the potential for sin. This sets the stage for a narrative where the protagonist is drawn into a world of intense emotions and inner conflict.
The woman's eyes are likened to a 'black lake,' a metaphor that conveys depth, mystery, and danger. Drinking from this lake symbolizes succumbing to her allure, leading to self-destruction. The imagery of 'derrapar nas suas curvas' (skidding on her curves) and 'morrer no mar' (dying in the sea) further emphasizes the perilous journey the protagonist is willing to undertake, despite knowing the risks. Her smile is described as 'jocoso, impreciso' (jocose, imprecise), adding to her enigmatic and unpredictable nature. This ambiguity leaves the protagonist unsure whether she is a huntress or the hunted, comparing her to mythological and real-life figures like Diana, Aphrodite, and Brigitte Bardot.
The song also touches on the theme of unrequited love and the frustration that comes with it. The protagonist laments that his poetic efforts to win her over are in vain, as she doesn't even listen to him. This culminates in his decision to stop trying to impress her with words, leaving her with just his 'olhar 43'—a longing, sideways glance that signifies his deep, unspoken desire. The final lines express a sense of regret and wasted potential, highlighting the emotional turmoil of loving someone who remains out of reach.