Diáspora

The song 'Diáspora' by Tribalistas is a poignant exploration of displacement, loss, and the search for belonging. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the struggles faced by refugees and migrants, who risk their lives crossing treacherous waters in search of safety and a better future. The opening lines, 'Acalmou a tormenta / Pereceram / Os que a estes mares ontem se arriscaram,' set the tone for the song, highlighting the perilous journeys undertaken by those fleeing their homelands. The mention of various groups such as Cubans, Syrians, and Romani people underscores the universality of this experience, transcending national and cultural boundaries.

The repeated question, 'Where are You?' serves as a haunting refrain throughout the song, reflecting a deep sense of abandonment and a desperate plea for divine intervention. This cry is further emphasized in the lines, 'Deus, ó Deus, onde estás que não respondes? / Em que mundo, em qu'estrela tu t'escondes?' Here, the lyrics evoke a sense of spiritual desolation, questioning the presence and responsiveness of a higher power in the face of immense human suffering. The reference to 'dois mil anos' suggests a historical continuity of this plea, indicating that the search for divine guidance and solace is an age-old human endeavor.

The imagery of 'center shoppings superlotados / De retirantes refugiados' juxtaposes the commercialized, consumer-driven world with the stark reality of overcrowded refugee camps. This contrast highlights the disparity between the lives of those who are privileged and those who are marginalized. The song also touches on the fragmentation of families and communities, as seen in the lines, 'Meu irmão sem irmã / O meu filho sem pai / Minha mãe sem avó,' emphasizing the personal and emotional toll of displacement. Through its evocative lyrics and haunting melody, 'Diáspora' serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing refugee crisis and the enduring human quest for home and belonging.