This artwork portrays the emotions that boil inside poor Elmo. Two figures, with mocking gestures and evil grins, laugh as they target the tormented soul at the center. Juninho and Paulinho, Elmo’s so-called friends, delight in bullying him and making him a laughingstock whenever possible. These two tormentors prey upon the young man’s naive and pure nature—an altruistic and loving friend who only wishes to help those who have lost their way.
Elmo is a devout Christian, not only steadfast in his beliefs but also living by them, always striving to share God’s word with everyone. Yet, his kindness and unwavering faith are taken advantage of by those who seek to exploit his innocence. He is also ridiculed for his high-pitched voice, another trait that makes him an easy target in their cruelty.