Couro de Boi

Sérgio Reis' song 'Couro de Boi' delves into the complexities of familial relationships, particularly focusing on the often-overlooked sacrifices and emotional bonds between generations. The song opens with a poignant proverb, 'A father cares for ten children, but ten children do not care for one father,' setting the stage for a narrative that explores the harsh realities of aging and the shifting dynamics within a family. The story follows an elderly man who, unable to work due to his age, moves in with his son. However, the son's wife is not welcoming, and she pressures her husband to send his father away. The son, torn between his duty and his wife's demands, reluctantly asks his father to leave, giving him a cowhide to use as a blanket.

The elderly man, heartbroken but silent, takes the cowhide and leaves. His eight-year-old grandson, witnessing the scene, runs after him and asks for half of the cowhide. The old man, moved by his grandson's tears, splits the cowhide and gives him half. When the boy returns home, his father questions him about the cowhide. The boy's response is a powerful reflection on the cyclical nature of life and familial duty. He explains that one day, when his father grows old and comes to live with him, he might face the same situation. The boy plans to give his father the half of the cowhide, symbolizing the continuity of care and the lessons learned from the past.

'Couro de Boi' is a touching narrative that uses simple yet profound imagery to convey its message. The cowhide becomes a symbol of both the physical and emotional warmth that family members provide for each other. The song highlights the importance of empathy, respect, and the recognition of the sacrifices made by previous generations. It serves as a reminder that the way we treat our elders today will shape how we are treated in the future, emphasizing the enduring bond and responsibilities within a family.