1999
Abril Belga Lyrics

These lyrics by Abril Belga's song "1999" explore the experiences and emotions of a child witnessing their parents' tumultuous relationship and separation. The song begins with the singer reflecting on being just six years old when their parents forgot how to love each other. This line captures the sense of disappointment and confusion that a young child may feel when their parents' relationship starts deteriorating.

The second verse depicts the singer's attempts to seek solace outside of their troubled home environment. Kicking a ball outside of school and not having it returned symbolizes the feeling of abandonment and isolation that the child experiences. The lyrics express a desire to escape the conflicts between their parents by spending nights at a friend's house and hoping that the arguments will cease. This longing for peace and stability is palpable in the words.

Moving forward, the lyrics bring attention to the absence of the singer's father during their early years, suggesting a lack of paternal presence in their upbringing. The mother is portrayed as the sole caregiver, resulting in a family dynamic where the singer and their mother become a tight-knit unit. The absence of siblings intensifies the significance of this bond, highlighting the importance of their mother in their life.

The fourth verse introduces the father's reemergence after four years. The lyrics convey the singer's struggle to adapt to this new paternal figure and reflect on the difficulties of accepting someone they were once not familiar with. The reference to needing a flashlight to navigate through the darkness emphasizes the uncertainty and confusion experienced when faced with this unfamiliarity. The mention of childhood haze harks back to a specific memory from 1999, adding a touch of nostalgia and wistfulness.

In the final verse, the singer expresses forgiveness towards their parents. Despite the challenges they faced growing up, they acknowledge their parents' role in bringing them into this world and teaching them about love. The lyrics acknowledge the hardships their mother endured, being both a mother and father figure, and how it may have impacted her life. The mention of blocking out certain parts of their childhood reflects the natural tendency to shield oneself from painful memories. The comparison to the fog observed in the Leblon neighborhood in 1999 further reinforces the ephemeral and hazy nature of these recollections.

Overall, Abril Belga's "1999" delves into themes of family, separation, forgiveness, and the impact of parental conflicts on a child's life. The lyrics evoke a sense of vulnerability, nostalgia, and reflection as the singer recounts their experiences and tries to make sense of their upbringing.