Sete Saias

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman, adorned with seven flowing skirts, heading to a pilgrimage. These skirts aren't just clothing; they're presented as a visual representation of seven deadly sins, each distinct in color and accompanying her with every step. The narrator observes her, noting how the skirts, along with a striking white blouse, captivate the attention of the young men around her. They eagerly anticipate a mishap, a fall, anything that might reveal the exact number of skirts she wears, even without her dancing. The central tension arises from the woman's apparent display and the male gaze it attracts. The narrator directly questions her motives, wondering if accumulating admirers, perhaps one for each skirt, brings her pleasure. The lyrics suggest a pragmatic, almost transactional view of romance, likening her situation to building a collection rather than seeking genuine connection. The advice given is to choose one partner, or perhaps none, but the implication is that her current behavior is designed for romantic pursuit. The most striking craft element is the persistent motif of the "sete saias" (seven skirts) and their connection to the "sete pecados mortais" (seven deadly sins). This parallel elevates the woman's attire from mere fashion to a loaded symbol. The narrator's commentary, offering unsolicited advice about her skirt length and how she presents herself, highlights a societal judgment and a desire to control her allure. The specific instructions about skirt length – not too short to be "confusing" and "ugly," but high enough to reveal where her stocking ends – reveal a complex, almost contradictory, set of expectations placed upon her. Ultimately, the lyrics resonate because they capture a specific, yet relatable, dynamic of public perception and personal choice. The narrator's blend of observation, judgment, and unsolicited advice creates a compelling narrative about a woman whose outward appearance sparks intense scrutiny and speculation. The detailed, almost prescriptive, commentary on her clothing underscores the societal pressures and judgments that can surround female presentation and perceived flirtatiousness.