João Cabral de Melo Neto - A Biography - Ivan Marques

João Cabral de Melo Neto: A Biography by Ivan Marques

A definitive biography of one of Brazil's most important poets

João Cabral de Melo Neto was one of the most important poets of the twentieth century. His work is characterized by its precision, clarity, and intelligence, and it has been translated into more than thirty languages.

In this magisterial biography, Ivan Marques tells the story of Cabral's life and work, from his early years in Recife, Brazil, to his time as a diplomat in Europe and the United States. Marques draws on a wealth of sources, including interviews with Cabral's friends and family, to create a portrait of a complex and fascinating man.

A must-read for anyone interested in Brazilian literature and poetry

João Cabral de Melo Neto: A Biography is a must-read for anyone interested in Brazilian literature and poetry. Marques's meticulous research and engaging writing make this book a definitive account of Cabral's life and work.

Early Life and Education

João Cabral de Melo Neto was born in Recife, Brazil, on January 9, 1920. His father was a lawyer and his mother was a homemaker. Cabral showed a talent for writing at an early age, and he published his first book of poetry, "Pedra do Sono," in 1942.

Cabral studied law at the University of Recife, but he dropped out after two years to pursue a career in writing. He moved to Rio de Janeiro in 1945, where he became involved in the literary scene. He published several more books of poetry in the 1940s and 1950s, and he also began to write essays and criticism.

Diplomatic Career

In 1952, Cabral was appointed to the Brazilian diplomatic service. He served in various posts around the world, including London, Paris, and Washington, D.C. His diplomatic career gave him a firsthand view of the political and social changes that were taking place in the world, and it also influenced his writing.

Later Life and Work

Cabral retired from the diplomatic service in 1975, and he returned to Brazil. He continued to write poetry, and he also published several books of essays and criticism. He died in Rio de Janeiro on October 9, 1999.

Cabral's work is characterized by its precision, clarity, and intelligence. He was a master of the poetic form, and he used his poetry to explore a wide range of themes, including love, death, and the nature of reality. His work has been praised by critics and readers alike, and it has been translated into more than thirty languages.

Conclusion

João Cabral de Melo Neto was one of the most important poets of the twentieth century. His work is a testament to the power of poetry to illuminate the human condition. João Cabral de Melo Neto: A Biography is a must-read for anyone interested in Brazilian literature and poetry.