Meaning of "Breath After Breath" by Duran Duran

The lyrics of "Breath After Breath" explore themes of self-discovery, unity, and mortality. The opening lines convey a sense of confusion and uncertainty, as the narrator wakes up in a room and is unsure of their origins and destination. This could symbolize the disorientation and search for identity that many individuals experience in their lives. However, the voice they hear offers a respite from this confusion and provides a sense of guidance.

The repeated lines "Senhora musa da paz, Me abraça, me carrega no teu andor" translate to "Madam muse of peace, embrace me, carry me on your platform." This suggests that the narrator is seeking solace and protection from a higher power or a muse that represents peace. They long to find comfort in the midst of pain, seeking to rest in the arms of the muse while sleeping "no colo da dor" or "in the lap of pain."

The idea of transcendence and surrendering control is further explored in the line "A tua mão desenhou, O sonho na areia" meaning "Your hand drew the dream in the sand." This image suggests that the muse or higher power holds the ability to shape and guide the narrator's dreams and destiny. The request to "entrega de vez meu rumo e vida" or "give away my path and life once and for all" highlights the willingness to let go and entrust their fate to this muse.

The chorus emphasizes the complexity of truth, suggesting that it is not simply black and white. It acknowledges the duality of human existence, with the line "Alone we live and die, We love and fight." This evokes the idea of each individual navigating their own journey, experiencing both love and conflict.

The song then pivots to the recurring phrase "Breath after breath we carry this mortal coil." This phrase signifies the transient nature of life and the fragility of our existence. It implies that every breath is a reminder of our mortality, and we should appreciate each moment we have. The line "Safe for tomorrow" could be interpreted as finding solace and security in the present, rather than worrying about the uncertainties of the future.

The lyrics continue to emphasize the need for joy, connection, and freedom from suffocation. The lines "Diga uma palavra alegre, Manda um recado, que seja agora" meaning "Say a joyful word, Send a message, let it be now" convey a desire for positivity and immediacy in communication. The repetition of the phrase "Me abraça" or "Embrace me" reinforces the need for human connection and comfort.

The song concludes with the line "And birth is just a breath after breath." This final line reinforces the cyclical nature of life and the idea that birth and death are interconnected, with each breath symbolizing a small, fleeting moment in the grand scheme of existence.

In summary, "Breath After Breath" explores themes of identity, transcendence, mortality, and the importance of present-moment awareness. It speaks to the universal human experiences of confusion, longing for peace, and the constant reminder of our mortality with every breath we take.