Triste Berrante

In 'Triste Berrante,' Sérgio Reis captures a poignant sense of nostalgia for a bygone era, reflecting on the changes brought by progress. The song opens with the artist reminiscing about a time that feels so distant it almost seems like a dream. He recalls the beautiful sound of a 'triste berrante' (a sad cattle horn) and the sight of a cattle herder shouting 'êia!' as they guided the herd along the road. This imagery evokes a simpler, pastoral life, filled with the sounds and sights of nature and traditional rural activities.

The lyrics then shift to a more personal memory, where the narrator would stand by the roadside, watching the cattle pass by until the last one was out of sight. The mention of a palm tree where many hearts were carved suggests a place of sentimental value, a symbol of love and memories etched into the landscape. This part of the song emphasizes the deep emotional connection the narrator has with this past, a time when life was slower and more connected to the land.

However, the song also acknowledges the inevitability of change. The narrator reflects on how progress has 'covered the dust of the road,' replacing the old ways with new developments. Despite the advancements and the bustling activity of modern life, the narrator's heart remains tied to the past, seeing the ghostly image of the cattle herd even as cars and people pass by. This juxtaposition of past and present highlights the bittersweet nature of progress, where the new often comes at the expense of cherished traditions and memories.