Ternura

Vinicius de Moraes' song 'Ternura' is a heartfelt expression of love, filled with a sense of melancholy and acceptance. The lyrics begin with an apology for loving 'suddenly,' suggesting an unexpected and overwhelming emotion. This love, described as an 'old song' in the beloved's ears, indicates a deep, perhaps unreciprocated affection that has been present for a long time. The imagery of spending hours in the shadow of the beloved's gestures and drinking in the 'perfume of smiles' evokes a sense of longing and admiration from afar.

The song continues to describe nights spent comforted by the 'indescribable grace' of the beloved's fleeting steps. This line captures the transient nature of the moments shared, emphasizing the fleeting beauty of these experiences. The singer brings forth the 'sweetness of those who accept melancholically,' indicating a resigned acceptance of the situation. The affection left behind is described as free from the desperation of tears, the allure of promises, or the enigmatic words of the soul's veils. Instead, it is a serene, anointment-like overflow of caresses, asking only for the beloved to rest quietly.

The final lines of the song evoke a peaceful, almost spiritual imagery, where the 'warm hands of the night' meet the 'ecstatic gaze of dawn' without fatality. This suggests a gentle, inevitable meeting of night and day, symbolizing the hope for a tranquil and harmonious connection. Vinicius de Moraes, known for his poetic and lyrical prowess, beautifully captures the essence of tender, unrequited love, blending melancholy with a serene acceptance that resonates deeply with the listener.