Pelado

The song 'Pelado' by Ultraje a Rigor is a playful yet incisive commentary on societal norms and the human condition. The lyrics begin with a light-hearted depiction of being naked, likening it to the innocence and purity of a newborn. This imagery is used to strip away the layers of pretense and societal expectations, suggesting that at our core, we are all the same. The song celebrates the freedom and authenticity that comes with being 'pelado' (naked), free from the constraints of societal decorum and moral judgments.

As the song progresses, it delves deeper into the idea of nudity as a metaphor for vulnerability and honesty. The repeated phrase 'nu com a mão no bolso' (naked with a hand in the pocket) emphasizes a casual, unpretentious state of being. This contrasts sharply with the societal pressures to conform and disguise one's true self. The lyrics critique the hypocrisy of societal norms that censor and judge natural human behavior while simultaneously indulging in it behind closed doors. The song suggests that everyone, regardless of their social status, enjoys and desires this state of uninhibited freedom.

In the latter part of the song, Ultraje a Rigor shifts the focus to a more critical tone, addressing the real indecency in society: the lack of culture, health, and basic necessities. The 'barriga pelada' (bare belly) symbolizes the true shame of a nation, highlighting issues like poverty and inequality. By juxtaposing the playful notion of physical nudity with the harsh realities of social and economic deprivation, the song calls for a reevaluation of what is truly 'indecent' in society. 'Pelado' ultimately serves as a powerful social commentary, urging listeners to look beyond superficial judgments and address the deeper issues that plague humanity.