Mestre Jonas
Sá, Rodrix & Guarabyra
The Solitude and Serenity of Mestre Jonas
The song 'Mestre Jonas' by Sá, Rodrix & Guarabyra tells the intriguing story of a man named Jonas who chooses to live inside a whale. This narrative is rich with metaphorical meaning and cultural references, particularly drawing from the biblical story of Jonah and the whale. In the Bible, Jonah is swallowed by a whale as a consequence of trying to escape God's command. However, in this song, Jonas lives inside the whale by choice, suggesting a voluntary retreat from the outside world.
Jonas describes his life inside the whale as peaceful and secure, contrasting it with the chaos and unpredictability of the outside world. The whale becomes a sanctuary where he finds silence and tranquility, away from the storms and troubles that plague the external environment. This can be seen as a metaphor for seeking refuge in isolation, finding comfort in solitude, and perhaps even a critique of modern society's complexities and pressures.
The repeated assertion that Jonas has signed a paper to stay inside the whale 'until the end of life' adds a layer of commitment and permanence to his decision. It implies a deep sense of resignation or acceptance of his chosen path. This could reflect a broader theme of self-imposed exile or the lengths to which one might go to find inner peace. The song's serene yet melancholic tone underscores the bittersweet nature of Jonas's isolation, highlighting both the freedom and the confinement that come with his choice.