Meaning of POR TRAS DO MEU SSORIZO by Nas

The Nas song "POR TRAS DO MEU SORRISO" (translated to "Behind My Smile") delves into the deep emotional struggles and hardships faced by the artist. It explores themes of lost hope, broken love, and a longing for connection. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a life burdened by disappointments, abandonment, and a constant search for happiness. Let's dive into some standout lyrics and unravel the imaginative themes that they contribute to the overall narrative.In the opening lines, Nas portrays himself as an actor in the "book of life." This lyric sets the stage for the exploration of the protagonist's existence as a mere character in a story, navigating through hardships. It introduces the concept of life's instruction manual, where the central character's life takes a turn for the worse, becoming even more complicated than anyone could imagine.The line, "Eu só fruto da Consequência dos adulto," or "I am just a result of adult consequences," highlights the burden shouldered by the protagonist. It suggests that the decisions and actions of the adults in his life have placed him in unfavorable circumstances. This theme explores the generational impact of choices and the struggle to break free from a cycle of adversity.As Nas reflects on his life, he shares his experiences of sleeping on the streets out of fear of retribution from his own mother. This lyric portrays a heartbreaking reality and raises the theme of domestic conflict and its long-lasting effects. The pain of being afraid to return home, seeking solace where none can be found, speaks to the devastating impact of a broken family dynamic.Moving forward, Nas alludes to feeling alone and abandoned, embodying the metaphorical personification of a torn-up book. This imagery conveys a sense of isolation and vulnerability. The lyric suggests that life's challenges have left the protagonist feeling like discarded pages that no longer fit into the grand narrative. This theme explores the existential crisis of feeling disconnected from one's purpose.Further into the song, Nas expresses his longing for a connection with his absent father. He reveals his frustration at not knowing the date and time of his own birth, which adds another layer of emotional complexity to his already turbulent journey. This lyric delves into the theme of identity and the yearning for paternal love and understanding.Nas references a significant event when he was run over at the age of eight, yet didn't experience his father's embrace during that ordeal. This powerful metaphor reflects the longing for care and support during moments of vulnerability. It explores the absence of parental guidance and how it compounds feelings of abandonment and isolation.The lyrics convey a deep sense of disappointment in his father's absence. Nas questions why he was brought into the world if his father couldn't provide for him properly. This theme examines the burden of responsibility placed on parents and the lifelong impact of their decisions on their children.Throughout the song, Nas expresses his struggle with happiness. He feels his own joy has been trampled upon by lies and tears. This theme touches on the idea that the pursuit of happiness can be hindered by external factors such as deceit and emotional turmoil.The artist reflects on his own self-worth, feeling insignificant and unworthy. He describes himself as a person who seems to be the epitome of happiness, yet internally feels futile. This theme explores the facade of happiness many individuals project while grappling with their own insecurities.As the song progresses, Nas reveals the marks and tears of his past, describing his life as becoming old and sad like the passing of time and the wind. This motif of withered time suggests the decay of hope and the weariness that comes with a life marred by adversity.In conclusion, "POR TRAS DO MEU SORRISO" delves into the depths of Nas' troubled emotions and experiences. The song's themes of lost hope, love, abandonment, and a longing for connection collectively paint a canvas of profound emotional turmoil. Each standout lyric represents an imaginative theme that contributes to the overarching narrative, shedding light on the struggle to find happiness and meaning in a world defined by adversity and broken relationships.