Quem é Quem

Xutos & Pontapés' song "Quem é Quem" delves into the harrowing realities of war, particularly in an African context. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a nightmarish scenario where a hungry hyena, symbolizing the relentless and predatory nature of war, prowls in the darkness. This metaphor extends to the human participants in the conflict, blurring the lines between man and beast. The imagery of jeeps armed to the teeth and the sun casting a blood-red hue over the land underscores the violence and chaos that ensue.

The song's narrative progresses to describe a brutal raid on a village, where the inhabitants are caught off guard and mercilessly hunted down. The 'Senhores da Guerra' or 'Lords of War' are depicted as a cursed race, deriving pleasure from their deadly game. This raises a poignant question about the nature of humanity: who is the real animal in this savage jungle? The repeated refrain "Quem é quem" (Who is who) emphasizes the confusion and horror of distinguishing between human and beast in such a violent setting.

Further, the song touches on the tragic lives of children born into this environment. These 'filhos do ditador' (children of the dictator) grow up in a world where the law of the strongest prevails, and their education is marked by bullets and knives. Their story is one of terror, written in blood and pain. The song's relentless questioning of "Quem é quem" serves as a powerful indictment of the dehumanizing effects of war, leaving listeners to ponder the true nature of humanity amidst such brutality.