Garoto de Aluguel

The song "Garoto de Aluguel" by Zé Ramalho, a Brazilian singer-songwriter known for his unique blend of rock, folk, and traditional Brazilian music, tells a poignant story of a man who sells his love for money. The lyrics paint a picture of a transactional relationship where emotions are secondary to the financial arrangement. The protagonist seems to be a male escort or gigolo, offering his time and affection in exchange for material compensation. He expresses a cynical view of love, suggesting that his feelings are not involved in these transactions, and he is only interested in the payment.

The song's chorus, with its repeated requests for money and time, underscores the protagonist's detachment from the emotional aspects of the relationship. He is more concerned with the practicalities of his profession, which he describes as 'dirty and vulgar.' The lyrics also convey a sense of weariness and a desire to know how much longer he must continue in this line of work before he can forget his client and move on. The mention of a watch and the passage of time could symbolize the temporary nature of the relationships he forms and his awareness of their fleeting existence.

The ending of the song is particularly striking, with the protagonist instructing the client to leave the door open as they leave, signifying the end of their transaction. The image of the client crying while the protagonist smiles suggests a reversal of expected emotions, highlighting the emotional disconnect and the protagonist's hardened attitude towards his work. The song ultimately paints a vivid portrait of a person trapped in a life of commodified affection, yearning for something more meaningful but resigned to his fate.