Chora Coração
Tom Jobim
The Melancholic Lament of a Lonely Heart
Tom Jobim's song "Chora Coração" is a poignant exploration of loneliness and longing. The lyrics convey a deep sense of sorrow and yearning, as the narrator pleads for mercy and understanding. The repeated phrase "Tem pena de mim" (Have pity on me) underscores the desperation and vulnerability of someone who feels utterly abandoned and heartbroken. This emotional plea sets the tone for the entire song, inviting listeners to empathize with the narrator's plight.
The imagery in the song is vivid and evocative, painting a picture of a beautiful day that turns into a cold and lonely night. The contrast between the warmth of the day and the chill of the night symbolizes the narrator's internal struggle. The line "Aqui fora está tão frio / E lá dentro está também" (It's so cold outside / And inside too) highlights the pervasive sense of emptiness and isolation. The narrator finds no solace, neither in the external world nor within themselves, emphasizing the depth of their despair.
The song also touches on the passage of time and the pain of waiting. The ticking clock and the beauty of the night sky become sources of anguish rather than comfort. The narrator's inability to share these moments with their loved one turns what should be beautiful into a source of sadness. The refrain "Chora coração" (Cry, heart) encapsulates the essence of the song, a heart-wrenching cry for relief from the unbearable weight of loneliness. Tom Jobim masterfully combines lyrical beauty with emotional depth, creating a timeless piece that resonates with anyone who has experienced the pain of separation and longing.