Cobra Venenosa

In the song "Cobra Venenosa" by Tião Carreiro e Pardinho, the lyrics weave a vivid narrative that uses the metaphor of venomous snakes to describe the pain and danger of a toxic love. The song begins by detailing the characteristics of various deadly snakes, such as the rattlesnake, urutú, and jaracuçu, each known for their lethal bites and the marks they leave behind. This imagery sets the stage for a deeper exploration of emotional wounds inflicted by a deceitful lover, likened to a venomous serpent in human form.

The protagonist recounts his experiences with these dangerous creatures, noting that while he has survived their bites thanks to antidotes, there is one type of venom for which he has found no cure: the venom from the eyes of a woman from the countryside. This woman, described as a "cobra venenosa" (venomous snake), has inflicted a wound on his heart that no remedy can heal. The metaphor of the snake is extended to illustrate the lingering pain and the indelible mark left by this toxic relationship, symbolized by the "cicatriz da saudade" (scar of longing).

As the song progresses, the protagonist reveals that it has been almost a year since he left his homeland, driven away by the emotional poison of this woman's gaze. Despite seeking various remedies and wandering through the city in search of a cure, he finds that nothing can alleviate the ache of his longing. The song concludes with a poignant repetition of the story, emphasizing the enduring and inescapable nature of his heartache. Through its rich use of metaphor and vivid storytelling, "Cobra Venenosa" captures the essence of a love that is as dangerous and unforgettable as the bite of a venomous snake.