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Isso de querer ser exatamente aquilo que a gente é by Paulo Leminski — Analysis & Translation

2 min read Portuguese

Original Poem

Isso de querer ser exatamente aquilo que a gente é ainda vai nos levar além

Translation (English)

The desire to be exactly who we are will eventually take us further

About the Poet

Paulo Leminski (Late 20th century)

Paulo Leminski Filho was a Brazilian writer, poet, literary critic, translator, and teacher, born on August 24, 1944, and passed away on June 7, 1989. He is known for his innovative and experimental approach to poetry, often blending humor and philosophical insights.

Historical Context

Literary Form
Free verse
When Written
Late 20th century
Background
This poem reflects Leminski's philosophical and introspective style, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and self-awareness. It suggests that being true to oneself can lead to personal growth and transcendence.

Sources: https://www.letras.mus.br/gui-pagliari/exatamente/, https://www.pensador.com/frase/NDE5Nzk0/, https://brainly.com.br/tarefa/49636406, https://kdfrases.com/frase/111167, https://medium.com/@laurampires/o-preço-de-saber-quem-você-é-93b7f6f8fbb8

Detailed Explanation

This short poem by Paulo Leminski explores the theme of self-acceptance and authenticity. The poet suggests that striving to be true to oneself, rather than conforming to external expectations, is a path that can lead to personal growth and transcendence. The phrase 'ainda vai nos levar além' implies that this journey of self-discovery and authenticity has the potential to take us beyond our current limitations or understanding. Leminski's style is characterized by its simplicity and depth, using everyday language to convey profound philosophical insights.

Themes

  • Authenticity
  • Self-discovery
  • Personal growth

Literary Devices

  • Metaphor: 'ser exatamente aquilo que a gente é' suggests authenticity as a journey.
  • Repetition: The phrase structure emphasizes the importance of self-awareness.
  • Philosophical insight: The poem reflects on the deeper meaning of being true to oneself.

Word Dictionary

Word Meaning Translation Transliteration
Isso Isto This Ees-so
de de from deh
querer desejar to want keh-rehr
ser existir to be sehr
exatamente precisamente exactly eh-zah-tah-men-teh
aquilo isso that ah-kee-loh
que o qual that keh
a a the ah
gente nós we zhen-teh
é é is eh
ainda até agora still ah-een-dah
vai irá will vah-ee
nos a nós us nohs
levar conduzir to take leh-vahr
além mais longe beyond ah-len

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