A Gente Não Lê

Rui Veloso's song "A Gente Não Lê" delves deep into the themes of ignorance, tradition, and the human condition. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a community steeped in old customs and superstitions, where knowledge is passed down orally rather than through written word. The repeated invocation of "senhor das furnas" (lord of the caves) symbolizes a plea for guidance and protection in a world that feels dark and uncertain. This darkness is not just physical but also metaphorical, representing the lack of enlightenment and understanding within the community.

The song highlights the paradox of knowing the land intimately—understanding the tides, the fruits, the animals, and the dialect—yet remaining ignorant of the broader world. This is encapsulated in the lines about being able to "soletrar, assinar em cruz" (spell, sign with a cross) but failing to see the "vultos furtivos" (furtive figures) that deceive them. The community's knowledge is practical and immediate, but it lacks the depth and breadth that comes from literacy and broader education.

Veloso also touches on the theme of isolation and the perpetuation of tradition. The people in the song are described as sitting by the door, listening to the world's noises and interpreting them in their own way. This isolation is both physical and intellectual, as they cling to the superstitions and traditions of their ancestors. The song suggests that this adherence to tradition, without the benefit of broader knowledge, leaves them feeling small and insignificant. The final lines emphasize the weight of this inherited ignorance, which is passed down from generation to generation, trapping them in a cycle of darkness and misunderstanding.