Meninos
Zé Geraldo
A Journey Through Nature and Innocence in 'Meninos'
Zé Geraldo's song 'Meninos' is a poetic exploration of nature, innocence, and the simple joys of life. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the countryside, filled with flowers, stars, and the sounds of nature. The opening lines, 'Vou pro campo / No campo tem flores / As flores têm mel,' evoke a sense of peace and tranquility, suggesting a retreat from the complexities of modern life to a more serene and natural environment. The mention of stars in the sky and the dark mouth of the jaguar adds a touch of mystery and adventure to this idyllic setting.
The song also delves into the playful and curious nature of childhood. Lines like 'acampar no mato / No mato tem pato, gato e carrapato' highlight the excitement and discovery that come with exploring the outdoors. The imagery of waterfalls and round pebbles in the water further emphasizes the beauty and wonder of nature. The cautionary advice, 'Quem não sabe nadar / não caia nessa onda,' serves as a gentle reminder of the potential dangers that come with these adventures, adding a layer of wisdom to the otherwise carefree narrative.
In the latter part of the song, Zé Geraldo touches on themes of imagination and folklore. The lines 'Dizem que verrugas são estrelas / que a gente aponta' and 'Os sete anões pequeninos / Sete corações de meninos' bring in elements of myth and fairy tales, blending reality with fantasy. This fusion of the real and the imaginary underscores the innocence and creativity of childhood. The reference to Snow White and the seven dwarfs, with their 'alma leve' and 'sorriso e o sentimento,' encapsulates the pure and unburdened spirit of youth, making 'Meninos' a heartfelt tribute to the joys and innocence of childhood.