Debaixo da Saia Dela

Vanessa da Mata's song "Debaixo da Saia Dela" is a poetic and whimsical exploration of youthful infatuation and the mysteries of womanhood. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young boy who becomes utterly captivated by a woman, symbolized by her long skirt. This skirt is not just a piece of clothing but a metaphorical gateway to a world of wonder and beauty, filled with natural and cultural treasures like a jacaranda tree, ingazeiro fruit, and the artistic beauty of Portinari.

The song's narrative unfolds as the boy sets up camp on a street corner, waiting for the woman to pass by again. His fascination is so intense that he becomes almost statue-like, described as "paralisado, comida de mosquito" (paralyzed, food for mosquitoes). This imagery highlights his complete absorption and the almost magical hold the woman has over him. The repeated questioning of what lies beneath her skirt underscores the boy's innocent curiosity and the allure of the unknown.

Vanessa da Mata uses rich, evocative language to convey the boy's enchantment and the woman's enigmatic presence. The references to natural elements and cultural icons like Portinari add layers of meaning, suggesting that the woman's allure is both earthly and sublime. The song captures the essence of youthful wonder and the timeless allure of mystery, making it a beautiful and relatable tale of innocent fascination and the magic of discovery.