Milonga de Sete Cidades (a Estética do Frio)
Vitor Ramil
The Poetic Journey Through Seven Cities
Vitor Ramil's song "Milonga de Sete Cidades (a Estética do Frio)" is a profound exploration of the human soul through the lens of a traditional South American musical form, the milonga. The lyrics describe the creation of a milonga in seven metaphorical cities, each representing a different aspect of the human experience: Rigor, Profundidade (Depth), Clareza (Clarity), Concisão (Concision), Pureza (Purity), Leveza (Lightness), and Melancolia (Melancholy). These cities are not physical places but rather states of being or emotional landscapes that the artist navigates through his music.
The milonga, a genre deeply rooted in the cultural fabric of the Southern Cone, particularly Argentina and Uruguay, is characterized by its rhythmic complexity and emotional depth. Ramil uses this form to delve into the intricacies of the human condition. The song suggests that the milonga is timeless, existing beyond the constraints of space, and finds its home in these seven 'cold' cities. This coldness can be interpreted as a metaphor for introspection and the often solitary journey of self-discovery.
Each city represents a different facet of the artist's inner world. In Clareza, the infinite and precise pampas inspire clarity of thought. Rigor leads him down subtle paths, suggesting a disciplined approach to understanding. Profundidade allows him to find his soul, indicating a deep, introspective journey. Concisão, with its small courtyards, symbolizes the ability to see the universe in confined spaces, perhaps a nod to the power of concise expression. Pureza and Leveza bring dreams and openness, while Melancolia, often seen as a negative emotion, is portrayed as a source of happiness and self-realization. Through these cities, Ramil paints a rich, emotional landscape that invites listeners to reflect on their own journeys.