Tanto Mar
Chico Buarque Lyrics

The song "Tanto Mar" by Chico Buarque has two versions, with slight variations in the lyrics. Both versions express longing and distance between two people, separated by "tanto mar" (so much sea). The first version starts by acknowledging that the addressee is celebrating, and the singer wishes to be present at the party to collect a flower from their garden. The chorus emphasizes the distance that separates the two, but also the importance of navigating through it. The second version recalls a beautiful party in the past, where the singer received a flower which they still keep. They know that time has passed, and the party has withered away, but they hope that somewhere in the garden there is a seed that will grow into new celebrations. In both versions, the singer asks for a "cheirinho de alecrim" (a sprig of rosemary) to be sent to them, as a symbol of closeness and affection.

The lyrics of "Tanto Mar" can be interpreted as a political allegory, as Chico Buarque wrote the song during the period of Brazilian dictatorship. The song can be read as a statement about the division and oppression caused by the regime, and the need to overcome it by navigating through the vastness and difficulties of political resistance. The flower and the rosemary can be seen as symbols of hope and resilience, growing even in adverse conditions.