O Que Faz Falta

Zeca Afonso's song 'O Que Faz Falta' is a powerful call to awareness and action amidst societal issues. The repetitive nature of the phrase 'O que faz falta' which translates to 'What is needed' or 'What is lacking' emphasizes the urgency and the necessity for change. The song's lyrics paint a picture of a society in distress, where basic human needs and rights are not being met, and where the common people are suffering under oppressive conditions.

The verses describe various scenarios of hardship and injustice, such as the taste of bread being likened to waste, a metaphor for extreme poverty and the lack of quality in life's basic necessities. The song also touches on the loss of innocence, with the line 'Quando nunca a infância teve infância' ('When childhood never had a childhood'), suggesting that the harsh realities of life are encroaching upon even the youngest and most vulnerable members of society. The mention of a man sleeping in a gutter and the presence of fascists conspiring in the shadows further illustrate the dire circumstances that the people are facing.

Zeca Afonso was known for his political activism and his music often reflected his anti-fascist and pro-democracy views, especially during the period of the Estado Novo regime in Portugal. 'O Que Faz Falta' is not just a song but a rallying cry, urging the 'malta' (the people) to wake up, to be animated, and to push for change. It's a call for empowerment and liberation, to shake off complacency and to fight for a better future. The song remains relevant as a reminder of the power of collective action and the importance of standing up against oppression and inequality.