Fotografia

The song 'Fotografia' by Tom Jobim, a renowned Brazilian composer and musician, is a poignant reflection on a fleeting romantic moment shared between two people. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a couple spending time together on a terrace by the sea as the sun sets, creating a mood of intimacy and tranquility. The recurring mention of the sea and the setting sun serves as a metaphor for the transient nature of the moment they are experiencing. The beauty of the scene is tinged with the sadness of an impending departure, as indicated by the line 'Você tem que ir embora' ('You have to go away').

As the song progresses, the setting shifts to a dimly lit bar, suggesting a continuation of the evening. The appearance of a large moon rising from the sea adds to the romantic atmosphere. However, the mention that the bar is about to close reinforces the theme of endings and the ephemeral quality of the time the couple has together. The lyrics evoke a sense of yearning and a desire to hold onto the moment, which is encapsulated in the 'velha história' ('old story') that all songs tell—a story of longing and the search for connection. The kiss, mentioned at the end of the song, symbolizes the culmination of their brief encounter, a poignant memory that will be cherished like a photograph.

Tom Jobim's music is often characterized by its bossa nova rhythms and its ability to convey deep emotion through simple yet evocative lyrics. 'Fotografia' is no exception, as it uses the imagery of a photograph to explore themes of memory, the passage of time, and the bittersweet nature of brief encounters. The song's gentle melody and Jobim's tender vocal delivery further enhance the reflective and nostalgic mood of the lyrics.