Regresso
Cesaria Evora Lyrics

The song "Regresso" by Cesária Évora is sung in Cape Verdean Creole and explores the theme of homecoming and the mixed emotions that come with it. The lyrics are addressed to the singer's mother, who is told to "look at me" and "see that I am not well." The singer's heart is heavy with sadness and pain, but they do not know what to do or where to go to find relief. The repeated phrase "bô ca mesté bem" ("you're not doing well") suggests a sense of helplessness and resignation.

The verses repeat the same question, "Cusê qu'ês flá-bo pá fla-me?" ("What are you saying to me?"), conveying a sense of confusion and frustration. The singer is looking for answers, for someone to explain why they are feeling this way and what they should do about it. The use of Cape Verdean Creole adds a layer of cultural specificity and reinforces the sense of longing for home that runs throughout the song. The chorus, with its repeated phrase "bô ca mesté bem," serves as a sort of emotional anchor, reminding the singer and the listener that sometimes there are no easy answers to life's struggles.

Overall, "Regresso" is a poignant and affecting song that speaks to the universal experience of feeling lost and uncertain, while also capturing the unique cultural context of Cape Verdean identity.