Juvenília
RPM
The Disillusionment of Youth in 'Juvenília' by RPM
In 'Juvenília,' RPM delves into the disillusionment and existential angst of youth in Brazil. The song opens with a powerful expression of emptiness and dissatisfaction, highlighting a sense of betrayal by the country's servile traditions. The lyrics reflect a deep-seated frustration with societal norms that fail to resonate with the younger generation. This sentiment is encapsulated in the line, 'Sinto um imenso vazio e o Brasil que herda o costume servil não serviu pra mim,' which translates to 'I feel an immense emptiness and Brazil, which inherits the servile custom, did not serve me.' The use of 'servile custom' suggests a critique of the submissive and conformist attitudes that the artist perceives in Brazilian society.
The song also explores themes of fear and confinement, as seen in the lines 'Juventude, aventura e medo, desde cedo, encerrado em grades de aço,' meaning 'Youth, adventure, and fear, from an early age, enclosed in steel bars.' This metaphor of being trapped in 'steel bars' conveys a sense of being imprisoned by societal expectations and limitations. The reference to a 'destroçado' (shattered) heart further emphasizes the emotional toll of these constraints.
As the song progresses, it touches on themes of escape and the search for freedom. The mention of the 'primeiro avião' (first airplane) symbolizes a desire to leave behind the oppressive environment. However, the song also acknowledges the ongoing struggles faced by the country, describing it as a 'terra linda' (beautiful land) that continues to suffer from the exploitation of 'piratas' (pirates) and 'mercenários' (mercenaries). This imagery underscores the artist's lament over the persistent issues of corruption and exploitation. The song concludes with a poignant reflection on shared guilt and the complexities of human relationships, as the lyrics describe a cycle of blame and reconciliation.