Mestre Marçal

Wilson das Neves' song 'Mestre Marçal' is a rich tapestry of Brazilian culture, wisdom, and resilience. The lyrics reflect a deep understanding of life's struggles and the importance of maintaining one's dignity and humor in the face of adversity. The song opens with a poignant line, 'Se alguém me bancar eu sei me vestir,' which translates to 'If someone supports me, I know how to dress.' This line sets the tone for the rest of the song, highlighting the theme of self-reliance and the desire for independence despite financial constraints.

The song pays homage to Mestre Marçal, a revered figure in Brazilian music, known for his mastery of samba and his role as a mentor to many musicians. The lyrics, 'Vou comendo mingau pela beira do prato,' or 'I eat porridge from the edge of the plate,' use a metaphor to describe a cautious approach to life, taking small steps to avoid getting burned. This reflects a broader cultural wisdom of patience and prudence, especially in challenging times.

Throughout the song, Wilson das Neves weaves in themes of resilience and acceptance. Lines like 'Se a onça morrer o mato é nosso' ('If the jaguar dies, the forest is ours') and 'Se a morte é um descanso, meu bem, eu prefiro viver é cansado' ('If death is a rest, my dear, I prefer to live tired') emphasize a pragmatic approach to life's hardships. The song also touches on the inevitability of change and the importance of staying true to oneself, as seen in 'Eu nasci sem saber nada e também vou morrer sem aprender tudo' ('I was born knowing nothing and will also die without learning everything').

'Mestre Marçal' is a celebration of the human spirit, resilience, and the wisdom that comes from living a life full of challenges. It is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, one can find strength, humor, and a sense of community.