Paletó de Madeira

Toinho de Aripibú's song 'Paletó de Madeira' is a poignant reflection on the transient nature of human life and the futility of pride and materialism. The lyrics begin by reminding us of our origins from dust and our inevitable return to it, with a nod to the Christian belief in the rapture as an exception. This sets the stage for a meditation on the ephemeral nature of existence, likening human life to a cloud that appears and then quickly dissipates with the wind.

The song questions the purpose of pride, arrogance, and resentment, emphasizing that everything we have comes from God. The repeated refrain, 'Depois que a gente morre, tudo se resume num paletó de madeira' (After we die, everything boils down to a wooden suit), serves as a stark reminder that in death, all material possessions and social statuses are rendered meaningless. This metaphor of the 'wooden suit'—a coffin—underscores the ultimate equality of all humans in death.

Toinho de Aripibú also advocates for kindness and love, urging listeners to do good without discrimination and to love their neighbors as themselves, echoing biblical teachings. The song calls for humility and compassion, highlighting that the greatest commandment is love. By juxtaposing the inevitability of death with the importance of love and humility, 'Paletó de Madeira' delivers a powerful message about the values that truly matter in life.