Funeral do lavrador

“Funeral do lavrador” by Zélia Barbosa is a poignant and reflective song that delves into the life and death of a farmer. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the farmer's final resting place, a grave that is described as neither too large nor too deep, symbolizing the modesty and simplicity of his life. The repeated mention of the grave's size and the land he desired to see divided highlights the farmer's lifelong struggle and his ultimate return to the earth, a common theme in agrarian societies where land is both a source of life and a final resting place.

The song uses the metaphor of the grave to comment on the social and economic conditions faced by farmers. The “latifúndio,” or large estate, represents the vast lands controlled by a few, while the farmer's small grave signifies his limited share in life. Despite his hard work and dreams of land reform, the farmer's portion remains minimal, even in death. This stark contrast underscores the inequities and the harsh realities of rural life, where the land that sustains life is often out of reach for those who toil on it.

Zélia Barbosa's delivery of the song adds a layer of emotional depth, capturing the sorrow and resignation of the farmer's plight. Her voice, coupled with the somber lyrics, evokes a sense of mourning not just for the individual, but for the collective struggles of farmers. The song serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring issues of land ownership and social justice, resonating with listeners who understand the profound connection between land and livelihood.