Cálice

"Cálice" (Brazilian Portuguese pronunciation: [ˈkalisi]) is a song composed in 1973 by Brazilian musicians Chico Buarque and Gilberto Gil, officially released in 1978. Written during Brazil's military dictatorship, the song uses biblical imagery and word play—most notably a pun on cálice ('chalice') and cale-se ('shut up')—to critique state censorship and political repression while disguised under a religious theme.

The composition originated from an idea by Gil, inspired by the Passion of Christ and the biblical plea "Father, take this cup from me" (Pai, afasta de mim esse cálice). Buarque expanded the metaphor to include a direct political dimension, with its lyrics denouncing censorship, repression, and violence while expressing collective suffering and resistance. Combining MPB and rock music elements, the version released on Buarque's self-titled 1978 album features Milton Nascimento with additional vocals from the vocal group MPB4 and incorporates liturgical undertones and shifting vocal dynamics to mirror the progression from submission to defiance.

The song was banned by government censors upon completion, and an attempted live performance at the 1973 Phono 73 festival was forcibly interrupted by federal police. Following its official release in 1978, "Cálice" became a commercial and critical success, receiving extensive radio airplay. It has since been described as one of the most emblematic works of Brazilian popular music and a major cultural statement against the dictatorship.