Medo de Amar

Tom Jobim's song 'Medo de Amar' delves into the complexities of love, jealousy, and personal growth. The lyrics begin with a plea to turn the page and forget the past, suggesting a relationship that has ended. The speaker asks their former lover to pretend that their love has ceased, indicating a desire to move on from the pain and memories associated with the relationship. This opening sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the emotional turmoil caused by jealousy and the fear of loving again.

The song highlights the destructive nature of jealousy, describing it as a 'mal de raiz' or a deep-rooted evil. Jobim suggests that this jealousy stems from a fear of love, which ultimately prevents true happiness. The lyrics convey a sense of resignation and acceptance, as the speaker acknowledges that their former partner did not understand the damaging effects of jealousy. This reflection on the past serves as a catalyst for the speaker's personal growth and realization that fear and jealousy are barriers to genuine love and happiness.

In the final verses, the speaker encourages their former lover to live their life as they wish but warns them not to be surprised if a new woman emerges from the speaker, like a flower blooming in the desert. This metaphor signifies rebirth and transformation, suggesting that the speaker has grown and learned from their past experiences. The closing lines reveal a profound understanding that jealousy, while often seen as a negative emotion, can also be viewed as a 'perfume do amor' or the fragrance of love, indicating its complex and multifaceted nature. Through 'Medo de Amar,' Tom Jobim masterfully captures the bittersweet essence of love, loss, and personal evolution.