Que o Amor Não Me Engana

Zeca Afonso's song 'Que o Amor Não Me Engana' delves into the complexities and deceptive nature of love. The lyrics open with a plea for love not to deceive with its gentleness, hinting at past experiences where love's warmth has left behind a lingering bitterness. The 'mancha negra' (black stain) and 'pedra fria' (cold stone) symbolize the remnants of past heartbreaks, suggesting that love, while seemingly tender, can leave lasting scars.

The song continues to explore the theme of love's elusiveness and the pain of separation. The imagery of voices embarking on a 'silêncio aflito' (afflicted silence) and the paradox of their cries becoming louder as they grow apart evoke a sense of longing and unfulfilled desire. This metaphor highlights the inner turmoil and the haunting presence of love even in its absence. The 'noite marinheira' (sailor's night) serves as a backdrop for this emotional journey, symbolizing the vast, often lonely expanse of the human heart.

In the latter part of the song, Afonso introduces a glimmer of hope with the arrival of spring, where 'flores vermelhas' (red flowers) bloom, symbolizing renewal and the possibility of new love. The reference to the 'irmã cotovia' (sister lark) and the anticipation of the dawn suggest a yearning for clarity and a new beginning. Despite the pain and deception, there is a sense of resilience and the belief that love, in its true form, can still bring beauty and renewal.

'Que o Amor Não Me Engana' is a poignant reflection on the dual nature of love—its capacity to both wound and heal. Through rich metaphors and evocative imagery, Zeca Afonso captures the essence of love's complexity, making it a timeless piece that resonates with the universal human experience.