O Que Mereço
Zélia Duncan
The Balance of Desires: Exploring Zélia Duncan's 'O Que Mereço'
Zélia Duncan's song 'O Que Mereço' delves into the complexities of human desires and the quest for balance in life. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of longing and introspection, using metaphors that evoke both the sweetness and the pain of existence. The night is described as a 'sweet kiss' that burns, symbolizing the dual nature of experiences that can be both pleasurable and painful. This duality is further emphasized with the line 'Arde a tarde como fosse o Sol,' where the afternoon burns like the sun, suggesting the intensity of emotions and the passage of time.
The recurring theme in the song is the desire for what one truly deserves, without excess or deficiency. Duncan sings, 'Eu só quero o que mereço,' expressing a yearning for equilibrium. This desire for balance is reflected in the lines 'Nenhum mar a mais, nenhuma gota a menos' and 'Nenhum grão a mais, nenhum deserto a menos,' which highlight the importance of moderation and fairness. The song also touches on the idea of waiting for resolutions, as seen in 'Faz um tempo e eu espero que esse nó desate,' indicating a hope for clarity and the untangling of life's complexities.
Another significant aspect of the song is the reflection on missed connections and the passage of time. The lyrics 'É uma pena que nós só nos conhecemos hoje' express regret over meeting someone important too late, underscoring the theme of timing and fate. Duncan's desire for what she deserves extends to her relationships and life choices, as she seeks neither a 'final feliz' nor a 'triste recomeço,' but rather a state of contentment and authenticity. The song's introspective nature and poetic language invite listeners to reflect on their own desires and the balance they seek in their lives.