Escravidão translates to "slavery". It's a strong and evocative word that immediately grabs attention due to its historical and social weight.
In the song, the narrator describes a past relationship, saying "Era quase escravidão" (It was almost slavery). This powerful metaphor suggests a relationship that was intensely demanding or controlling, even if the narrator also admits to being treated "como um rei" (like a king). It highlights the complex and perhaps unhealthy dynamic of their connection, making it a very intriguing word choice.
"Ainda É Cedo" opens with the narrator admitting a girl taught him "Quase tudo que eu sei" (Almost everything I know), even if it felt like "quase escravidão" (almost slavery). He is honest that he did nothing to earn it: "Mas, egoísta que eu sou" (But, selfish as I am), he never gave back what she gave him. What holds the whole song together is the line he repeats after every stumble: "E eu dizia ainda é cedo" (And I kept saying it is still too early), like saying it enough times could stop the ending from arriving.
By the second half she is talking back. She tells him "você tem medo" (you are afraid), and he snaps that "quem tem medo é você" (you are the one who is afraid). Neither backs down until she finally says "Vamos dar um tempo, um dia a gente se vê" (Let us take a break, one day we will see each other). He answers with the same line he has been repeating the whole time. Legião Urbana wrote plenty of songs about growing up too fast; this one is about refusing to.
Legião Urbana was a rock band from Brasília, Brazil, fronted by the distinctive singer and songwriter Renato Russo. They emerged in the 1980s, quickly becoming one of the most influential groups in Brazilian music.
Their music is known for its poetic and often introspective lyrics, which frequently explored social and political themes relevant to their time. They created many memorable songs, including "Que País É Este", "Pais e Filhos", and the epic "Faroeste Caboclo". Albums like Dois and As Quatro Estações are considered classics, showcasing their unique sound and storytelling.