mocita dos caracÓis
Alfredo Marceneiro Lyrics

"Mocita dos Caracóis" is a beautiful and emotive song by Alfredo Marceneiro that revolves around a man's plea to his beloved to not leave him and their rural way of life for the city. The lyrics are full of imagery that is both romantic and melancholic. The song opens with the man addressing his lover, referring to her as "mocita dos caracóis", or "little girl with the curls". He begs her not to leave him and their idyllic life on the farm, where they are surrounded by the sounds of nightingales singing like heroes, singing the story of their life. He warns her that if she leaves their estate, she will lose the things that make her special and unique, such as her beautiful, natural blonde curls, which are highly prized in the city and often purchased at a high cost from hairdressers. He reassures her of his love and devotion, telling her she is the most beautiful woman he has ever seen, and he will always be by her side.

Despite being a love song, "Mocita dos Caracóis" also provides a bleak outlook on the concept of progress and urbanization. The singer pleads with his lover not to be seduced by the lure of the city, as it represents everything they do not have - greed, materialism, and a superficial lifestyle. He warns that the promises of the city will only lead to heartache and a loss of their unique identity. He instead offers her a life with him on the farm, full of simple pleasures and love. The lyrics are accompanied by a slow and mournful melody, emphasized by the use of the Portuguese guitar, further emphasizing the sense of loss and sadness in the song.