Meaning of Saudade by Van Zee (Ft. ​pikika)

The Elusive Emotion of Saudade: A Journey of Longing and Ambition

As I listened to Van Zee’s (Ft. pikika) song "Saudade", I was struck by the profound emotions that resonated within me. The song’s theme of longing and the desire for more in life is a universal human experience that transcends cultures and generations. In this article, I will delve into the meaning of saudade, exploring the complex emotions and conflicts that arise from wanting more in life while navigating personal struggles and desires.

The Journey of Self-Discovery

The song’s opening verse sets the tone for the narrative, with the narrator reflecting on their journey and the time spent contemplating life. "I’ve been in the middle of the sea with Ursula, feeling lost and overwhelmed by external influences". This line resonates deeply, as it speaks to the feeling of being adrift in a chaotic world, struggling to find one’s place. The narrator’s desire to stop wasting time and losing focus is a universal cry, as we all seek to find meaning and purpose in our lives.

The Power of Saudade

The chorus of the song is a poignant expression of the narrator’s intention to drown their longing and temporarily forget about it. "I want to drown my longing, and forget about it, one day I’ll remember the struggles I endured to get where I am". This sentiment speaks to the human desire to escape the pain of longing, to momentarily forget about the ache in our hearts. However, the narrator’s admission that they always want more, indicates their ambition and thirst for greater experiences. This is the essence of saudade – the longing for something more, something that eludes us, and the desire to pursue it relentlessly.

The Collective Experience of Longing

The second verse, performed as a duet with pikika, expands on the theme of longing. "Many others also experience this sense of longing, it’s vast as the sea, a collective feeling that cannot be ignored". This line highlights the universality of saudade, as we are all connected by our shared experiences of longing and desire. The narrator’s desire to swim without boundaries and deceit, to feel free and supported, is a powerful expression of the human need for connection and belonging.

The Conflict of Desire

The song’s lyrics also touch on the conflict between wanting to drown one’s longing and running away from it. "I feel someone’s eyes, and I’m weak, unable to resist my desires". This line speaks to the tension between our desires and our fears, as we struggle to reconcile our longing for something more with the uncertainty and risk that comes with pursuing it. The narrator’s contemplation of escaping to a distant place, where they won’t be found, is a poignant expression of the human desire to escape the pain of longing and find solace in the unknown.

The Healing Process

The outro of the song offers a message of hope and healing, inviting the listener to let wounds heal and embracing a desire to dance and enjoy life. "Let wounds heal, and let’s dance, and enjoy life". This sentiment speaks to the human capacity for resilience and growth, as we learn to navigate the complexities of our desires and longings. The narrator’s declaration of putting effort into reaching the person they long for, even if it means building a boat to get to them, is a powerful expression of the human desire to pursue our passions and connect with others.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Saudade" by Van Zee (Ft. pikika) is a powerful exploration of the human experience of longing and desire. The song’s themes of self-discovery, the power of saudade, the collective experience of longing, and the conflict of desire, offer a profound insight into the complexities of the human heart. As I reflect on my own experiences with this song, I am reminded of the importance of embracing our desires and longings, and the need to navigate the complexities of our emotions with courage and resilience.

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