Canção de Engate
Tiago Bettencourt
The Timelessness of Love in 'Canção de Engate'
Tiago Bettencourt's 'Canção de Engate' is a poignant exploration of love, loneliness, and the fleeting nature of time. The song opens with a sense of freedom and possibility, as both the narrator and the subject are free and have a night to spend together. This sets the stage for a deeper connection, an 'adventure of the senses,' where two lonely souls can find solace in each other. The imagery of an open hand waiting to close around another's 'deserted hand' beautifully captures the longing for companionship and intimacy.
The chorus emphasizes a central theme: love is not bound by time. Bettencourt sings, 'Vem que amor não é o tempo, nem é o tempo que o faz,' which translates to 'Come, for love is not time, nor is it time that makes it.' This line suggests that love is a moment of mutual giving and receiving, transcending the constraints of time. The repetition of this idea throughout the song reinforces the notion that love is an immediate, present experience rather than something that can be measured or confined by temporal limits.
The song also touches on the search for companionship and the disappointment of unmet expectations. The narrator acknowledges that both he and the subject are seeking something more, yet they are often left waiting for 'the best that no longer comes.' Despite this, there is a sense of hope and acceptance, as the narrator offers himself as 'better than nothing.' This vulnerability and willingness to embrace the present moment encapsulate the essence of the song, making 'Canção de Engate' a heartfelt reflection on the complexities of love and human connection.