Everything You Could Be

Summary

The web content is a tribute to Milton Nascimento, featuring a poem inspired by his song "Tudo Que Você Podia Ser," reflections on life's paths, and a mention of a summer music challenge.

Abstract

The website presents a personal homage to the Brazilian musician Milton Nascimento through a poem that captures the essence of his song "Tudo Que Você Podia Ser" (Everything You Could Be). The poem delves into themes of existentialism, the complexities of life's choices, and the emotional landscape one traverses, from the serenity of green paths to the regrets of roads not taken. It also references the impact of Nascimento's music, highlighting his collaborations with global stars and the profound effect of his melodies. The article further invites readers to explore different renditions of the song, including one by Quarteto em Cy, and mentions a July Summer Music Challenge, which involved writing about bossa nova.

Opinions

The author expresses admiration for Milton Nascimento, describing him as a "legendary giant" in music.
The lyrics of "Tudo Que Você Podia Ser" are seen as pointing to existential struggles, indicating the author's interpretation of the song's depth.
Quarteto em Cy's version of the song is praised for its captivating wall of sound, suggesting a strong preference for this interpretation.
The pairing of Quarteto em Cy's version with scenes from the anime "Akira" is considered "beyond fantastic," reflecting the author's enthusiasm for this creative combination.
The author encourages readers to enjoy both versions of the song, showing an inclusive appreciation for diverse musical expressions.
The mention of Terry Barr's memoirs indicates a recognition of his contributions to the summer music challenge, suggesting a community aspect to the musical reflection.

A poem for Milton Nascimento

Milton Nascimento, Wikimedia Commons. Public Domain.

Our sunset quest is every mirror of our green paths

dark roads journeyed twilight regrets roads avoided

The way forward always in nostalgia’s shadow dewy heart of rain in desert sun’s rage on the road to being again

Notes: Inspired by “Tudo Que Você Podia Ser” (Everything You Could Be) by Milton Nascimento (written by Lô Borges & Márcio Borges). Nascimento is a legendary giant who has collaborated with the world’s biggest stars. The lyrics point to existential struggles of choosing life’s path and the melody is rich and incredibly affecting.

I was first introduced to the gorgeous version below, sung by ‘60s Brazilian girl group Quarteto em Cy who embrace you in a captivating wall of sound.

I was torn between both versions, so I encourage you to enjoy both.

It is beyond fantastic that a Brazilian Youtube channel’s playlist backed Quarteto em Cy’s version with scenes from Akira.

Written for the July Summer Music Challenge where I wrote a poem or story about bossa nova for 31 days. See below for all entries including Terry Barr’s 8 brilliant memoirs about summer and music:

Everything You Could Be

A poem for Milton Nascimento

July Writing Challenge

We need some Bossa Nova