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.