This week with Bookstr’s around the world series we’ll be heading to Portugal! Known for stunning wine country, captivating architecture, as well as a rich history, Portuguese authors and writers continue to shape the literary landscape. From old to new, let’s dive in!
Fernando Pessoa
Fernando Pessoa was a Portuguese writer, poet, and literary critic, and is widely considered to be one of the most prominent literary figures of the 20th century. He was born in 1888 in Lisbon, Portugal before moving to South Africa after his father’s death. He became fluent in English and was heavily influenced by English literature. He approached writing in an incredibly unique way, adopting multiple heteronyms —which in this case means distinct literary personas. He crafted each personality carefully, shaping backstories, personal preferences and writing styles, and worldviews to match each pseudonym he wrote under.
Much of his work was published posthumously, earning him much credit and renown after his death. This seems to happen far too often to writers and artists. His only book of poetry published in his lifetime was titled Mensagem (Message) which explores the history, folklore, and mythology of Portugal. His life was quite solitary, and he poured much of his energy into his deep existential musings.
Eça de Queirós
José Maria Eça de Queirós was a renowned Portuguese novelist who was a leading figure in introducing naturalism and realism to Portugal. He was a prominent social activist and is widely considered to be the greatest Portuguese novelist. As the son of a renowned magistrate, he was sent to boarding school at the age of 5 and was pushed along the same track as his father. He graduated with a degree in law, but his real interests lied in literature.
After continuing to publish his short stories and ending up in the newspaper, he found himself running with a group of rebellious intellectuals like himself who were critical of the Portuguese social order. His early works have prominent Romantic and Gothic influences, which shift towards the social critique and vivid descriptions of Portuguese society he is most known for.
Os Maias, considered to be his masterpiece, is a social commentary following the life of Carlos da Maia as he navigates the 19th century Portuguese aristocracy. Queiros ponders the hypocrisy of the upper class, and the struggles to balance duty and desire in a high-profile world.
Inês Botelho
Inês Botelho is a contemporary young adult and fantasy author known for her vivid storytelling, fantastical plots, and well-developed characters. She is a student of history, which has clear influences on her writing style and the historical depth of her stories. She had an early debut into the writing world, publishing her first novel at just 16-years-old!
Like many authors, Botelho prefers to keep her personal life private, but that has not stopped her from leaving a strong imprint on Portuguese contemporary literature. She’s widely renowned for her contributions to the rising popularity of the fantasy genre in Portugal and has received many awards for her efforts and talent.
Botelho is known for her lyrical prose, vivid storytelling and descriptions, as well as her meticulous and comprehensive world-building and well-rounded characters. Some of the most prominent themes in her work include self-discovery (which lends itself to her preference for the YA genre), the struggle between good and evil, and subtle historical commentary. One of her most notable works, A Filha dos Mundos (The Daughter of the Worlds), is the first book in a trilogy that beautifully blends mythology and historical fiction, and highlights her mastery at blending the two.
Luísa Fortes da Cunha
Luísa Fortes da Cunha is a contemporary Portuguese author specializing in children’s and young adult literature. Her ability to connect with and encourage young readers has gained her much attention throughout her career, and she’s known for her imaginative narratives and highly relatable characters. Her accessible writing style and themes of friendship, teamwork, resilience, and the importance of following one’s heart resonate deeply with young readers and parents alike.
Da Cunha studied physical education and sports, and continues to be an advocate for the importance of young readers. She still regularly engages with her readers through school visits, events, and social media to connect with her audience and continue building her community.
One notable work by da Cunha is Teodora e o Segredo da Esfinge (Theodora and the Secret of the Sphinx). This humorous, creative series is well-loved and quite popular for its engaging protagonist and spirited plots. A second edition was commissioned just three months after its release!
Whether you’re looking for classic Portuguese social commentary or a fantastical adventure with sprinkles of Portuguese history mixed throughout, all of these authors have made a plethora of powerful contributions to the world of literature.
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