Seca Verde

“Seca Verde” by Zezé Di Camargo & Luciano is a poignant portrayal of the harsh realities faced by rural communities in Brazil, particularly those affected by drought. The song opens with vivid imagery of agricultural life, describing the tools and elements of farming such as the hoe, the burning of fields, and the persistent presence of weeds and insects. These details set the stage for the central theme of the song: the struggle to cultivate the land amidst a severe lack of water. The repeated lines, “Vontade de plantar e colher / E nem água pra beber,” emphasize the frustration and despair of wanting to plant and harvest but having no water even to drink.

The song also touches on the resilience and resourcefulness of the people living in these conditions. Despite the scarcity, they find ways to survive, as symbolized by the juazeiro tree, which remains green and provides some relief. The lyrics, “Juazeiro ainda está verde / E essa gente é feliz,” suggest a sense of hope and contentment rooted in their connection to the land. However, this is juxtaposed with the harsh reality of their situation, as they are “morrendo de sede nessa guerra pobre” – dying of thirst in this poor war.

The chorus introduces a powerful metaphor, imagining the singer as the waters of the São Francisco River (referred to as “velho Chico”), capable of flooding the land and ending the drought. This wishful thinking highlights the limitations faced by the community, as the singer acknowledges, “Mas eu não sou água / E nem sou rico pra poder fazer.” The song concludes with a repeated lament for the noble people enduring this “seca verde” – a green drought where the land may appear lush but is devoid of the essential water needed for life. This contrast underscores the irony and tragedy of their situation, making “Seca Verde” a moving tribute to the resilience and dignity of those living through such hardships.