Olhei pra trás [English translation]

I have finished my 4th grade exam, 1

I have already received my Solemn Communion;

I am already old enough to think about life...

Mother, I want to go and earn money!

Father, I want to move to the city!

A new suitcase in my hand,

Made out of wood and carton.

Inside of it, a blazer

That belonged to my brother Delfim,

A pair of canvas shoes

And a diploma

Showing my qualifications.

A rosary and the votive image of a saint

And my little book

Containing all the prayers there are...

And thus, I left that place...

Looking back,

With my thoughts looking ahead.

Before me there was nothing more, no...

Before me there was nothing more, no

Than a train car to the city,

A war ship and a plane.

A chamois overcoat,

Borrowed overalls

And a certificate

And, for Mister Coelho,

Who is a grocery store owner,

There's a recommendation

Letter.

And thus, I left that place...

Looking back,

With my thoughts looking ahead.

Before me there was nothing more, no...

Before me there was nothing more, no

Than a train car to the city,

A war ship and a plane.

Flannel long johns,

To keep me warm when it was cold

And a little medal

Of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux,

Which has been blessed

To defend me

From all evils!

And thus, I left that place...

Looking back,

With my thoughts looking ahead.

Before me there was nothing more, no...

Before me there was nothing more, no

Than a train car to the city,

A war ship and a plane.

1. Up to 1965, compulsory education in Portugal only went up to the 4th grade of Primary school.