Rosa de Hiroshima

Secos & Molhados' song 'Rosa de Hiroshima' is a poignant and evocative piece that delves into the devastating effects of the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima during World War II. The lyrics are rich with metaphors and imagery, painting a vivid picture of the aftermath and the human suffering that ensued. The song begins by urging listeners to think of the children, women, and the wounded, highlighting the innocence and vulnerability of those affected by the bomb. The use of words like 'mudas' (mute) and 'cegas' (blind) emphasizes the loss of senses and the profound impact on the victims' lives.

The recurring motif of the 'rosa' (rose) serves as a powerful symbol throughout the song. Initially, it represents beauty and life, but as the lyrics progress, it transforms into a symbol of destruction and decay. The 'rosa de Hiroshima' is described as 'hereditária' (hereditary) and 'radioativa' (radioactive), indicating the long-lasting and generational effects of the radiation exposure. The rose, typically a symbol of love and beauty, is now 'estúpida inválida' (stupid invalid) and 'com cirrose' (with cirrhosis), illustrating the grotesque and tragic consequences of the atomic bomb.

The final verses strip the rose of its traditional attributes—color, perfume, and essence—leaving it 'sem nada' (without anything). This stark imagery underscores the complete annihilation and the void left in the wake of such catastrophic events. Secos & Molhados use the rose as a metaphor to convey the irreversible damage and the loss of humanity caused by the atomic bomb. The song is a powerful reminder of the horrors of war and the enduring impact on future generations.