As Horas Extraordinárias

Sérgio Godinho's song "As Horas Extraordinárias" delves into the complex emotions of love, longing, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who is deeply affected by the absence of a loved one. The phrase "Foi a saudade do teu braço" (It was the longing for your arm) sets the tone for the song, indicating a deep sense of nostalgia and yearning. This longing is so intense that it becomes physically painful, as suggested by "o olhar que já da luz me dói" (the look that already hurts me from the light). The protagonist works tirelessly, almost mechanically, through these extraordinary hours, driven by the memory and the hope of reuniting with their loved one.

The song also explores the theme of solitude and self-reflection. The line "um dia que passou num furacão" (a day that passed in a hurricane) suggests a whirlwind of emotions and events, which only calm down when the protagonist is left alone, apart from love. This solitude is symbolized by the act of flipping a coin, a metaphor for the uncertainty and chance in life and love. The protagonist questions the value of their efforts and the choices they've made, seeking reassurance that their extraordinary hours were indeed necessary and meaningful.

In the second verse, the protagonist returns to their routine, finding a bittersweet mix of pain and pleasure. The heart, which was once vocal and expressive, is now subdued, much like a machine. The imagery of the typewriter and the machine of love suggests a mechanical, almost detached approach to life and emotions. Yet, there is a sense of acceptance and understanding that these extraordinary hours, filled with both joy and sorrow, are an essential part of their existence. The song beautifully captures the duality of human experience, where love and solitude coexist, and where every moment, no matter how extraordinary, contributes to the tapestry of life.