The song was written at the height of Brazil's military dictatorship (1964–1985), specifically during the repressive years of General Emílio Médici. Due to its overt social criticism, it was immediately censored and remained banned for five years until its official release in 1978.
The power of the song lies in its phonetic wordplay. The title word ([ˈkalisi], meaning "chalice") is phonetically identical in Portuguese to "Cale-se" (meaning "shut up" or "be silent"). CГЎlice (Cale-se). Chico Buarque & Milton Nascimento.
A religious plea echoing the Passion of Christ: "Pai, afasta de mim esse cálice" ("Father, take this cup from me"). The song was written at the height of
is one of the most significant protest anthems in Brazilian music history, originally composed by Chico Buarque and Gilberto Gil in 1973. This guide focuses on the definitive 1978 recording featuring Chico Buarque and Milton Nascimento , a collaboration born after Gil left the PolyGram label. Historical & Political Context This guide focuses on the definitive 1978 recording
A direct scream against censorship: "Pai, afasta de mim esse 'cale-se'" ("Father, take this 'shut up' from me"). Lyric Analysis & Symbolism
The lyrics use biblical imagery to mask brutal critiques of the regime's violence.
In a famous 1973 event, the Phono 73 festival, Chico and Gil attempted to perform it. The military cut their microphones mid-performance when they tried to sing the lyrics, forcing them to hum the melody as a form of silent protest. The Central Double Meaning
Hit the buttons below to follow us, you won't regret it...