E Agora?
Nazireu Rupestre Lyrics

The lyrics of "E Agora?" by Nazireu Rupestre address the struggles and challenges faced by a marginalized community. The opening lines, "Nos escravizaram e agora, Ferraram nossa cultura, Tiraram nossa paz e agora, Proibiram a nossa cura," convey the feeling of being oppressed and how this has negatively impacted their culture, peace, and access to healing.

The lyrics continue by highlighting how the oppressors try to bring the community down, wanting to weaken them. The line "Te pondo pra baixo, querem te enfraquecer, Pro tolo ser sábio basta nada dizer" suggests that they are trying to silence and belittle them, believing that wisdom can be attained simply by staying silent. This can be seen as a reflection of the power dynamics at play, with the oppressors trying to maintain control over the oppressed.

The verse then addresses the aftermath of the oppression, mentioning war, disease, pain, and struggle that debilitate and shorten their lives. It implies that these hardships are a result of the actions of the oppressors, who steal their time and hinder their growth. "Roubam nosso tempo não se deixam parecer, Causando medo não nos deixam crescer" conveys the idea that the oppressors not only steal their time, but also instill fear in them, preventing them from thriving.

The final verse shifts towards a message of empowerment. It encourages creating one's own opportunities, referencing Makandal, possibly a historical figure known for rebellion and resistance. The lyrics mention Rasta, which can be associated with Rastafarianism and its principles of liberation and self-empowerment. The line "Nem vem me falar de crise" implies a rejection of any notion of crisis or adversity, suggesting that they are resilient and able to overcome any challenges.

The closing lines emphasize resilience and determination, as they declare their purpose and intention. "Quebra tudo, quebra a banca, segue o exemplo de Jah, Aqui é homens do mato, não viemos pra brincar" convey a readiness to break barriers, defy expectations, and follow the example set by Jah (God or divine guidance). The reference to being "homens do mato" suggests that they are individuals connected to nature and their roots and that they are not there to play games but to assert their presence and demand respect.

Overall, the lyrics of "E Agora?" reflect a sense of frustration, resilience, and determination in the face of oppression and adversity. The song portrays a community that refuses to be silenced and strives to reclaim their culture, peace, and agency.