Echoes in the Embers of Love | Letra De 500 Graus | Caetano Veloso

Letra de 500 Graus is a song by Brazilian musician Caetano Veloso, released in 1971 as part of his album Transversale. The song's title translates to "Letter of 500 Degrees" or "Letter of 500 Fahrenheits," referencing the temperature scale used to measure heat.

The lyrics of Letra de 500 Graus are a poignant exploration of love, longing, and heartbreak. Veloso's poetic words paint a vivid picture of a relationship that has gone awry, with the narrator lamenting the loss of his partner's affection. The song's themes of passion, despair, and introspection are woven together through Veloso's distinctive singing style, which is characterized by its gentle, soothing quality.

Musically, Letra de 500 Graus features a blend of traditional Brazilian rhythms, such as samba and bossa nova, with elements of European folk music. The song's arrangement, which includes the use of acoustic guitar, violin, and percussion instruments, creates a sense of intimacy and vulnerability that complements Veloso's emotive vocals.

Throughout the song, Veloso's lyrics are infused with metaphors and imagery that evoke a sense of longing and yearning. He sings about the fleeting nature of love, comparing it to a "letter of 500 degrees," which is both intense and ephemeral. This theme of impermanence is underscored by the song's soaring chorus, in which Veloso pleads for his partner to return to him.

In many ways, Letra de 500 Graus can be seen as a quintessential representation of Caetano Veloso's musical style, which blends traditional Brazilian music with elements of European folk and popular music. The song's unique blend of styles and Veloso's poignant lyrics have made it a beloved classic among fans of Brazilian music.