Leonardo Lupidi
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Songbirds It is overcast and the sky threatens to rain. The roads of Leblon are smooth, If dotted with clusters of muddy leaves, Contrasting with the normal patchwork of reparations Covering the roads that criss-cross Rio de Janeiro. The street vendors and commuters slouch indoors Treating the oncoming drizzle like a Pennsylvania blizzard, Which, I think, speaks volumes of the state of the country. But, not everyone huddles in quiet contempt.
“Bem-te-vi!” Rang out across the road, “Bem-te-vi!” The songbird sang.
It called out its own name, over and over. A recognizable and familiar chant, Reminiscent of tribalistic soccer fans Which were an icon of Brazilian identity As much as the songbirds themselves. And, once more, it cries: “Bem-te-vi!” Which, as I’m sure you’re wondering by now Means: “Seen-you-well” But, to me it means something more.