Tambores

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a picture of persistent, internal melancholy, a feeling that the narrator has carried for a long time. The phrase "andando comigo" suggests a solitary existence, a constant companionship with this old feeling. This isn't a fleeting sadness; it's described as "sentimento antigo," an ancient or old sentiment that has become a part of the narrator's being. There's a striking contrast between the narrator's internal state and an external, perhaps commercialized, ritual. The line "Eles compram meus lindos cabelos" is particularly jarring, hinting at a commodification of something personal, possibly linked to the yearly Christmas tradition. This act, meant to be celebratory, only deepens the narrator's sorrow, as those involved "só me entristecem" – they only sadden me. The repetition of this event underscores the cyclical nature of their pain. The chorus, with its insistent "Tambores, tambores, tambores," acts as a powerful sonic representation of this deep-seated feeling. The word "tambores" evokes a rhythmic, perhaps overwhelming, beat – the sound of the narrator's own heart or the persistent drum of their sadness. This is amplified in the hook, where the "coração apaixonado" (passionate heart) is overwhelmed by "saudade," a profound sense of longing and melancholy. Ultimately, the effectiveness of these lyrics lies in their stark imagery and the raw emotional honesty. The juxtaposition of the external "Natal" ritual with the internal "sentimento antigo" and "saudade" creates a palpable sense of isolation. The relentless "tambores" serve as a constant reminder of a heart that, despite its passion, is weary from longing.