Modern Brazilian Short Stories

This anthology features seventeen stories that explore a wide range of Brazilian themes and styles, from the northeastern backlands to Rio and Sao Paulo. The characters are diverse, embracing wealthy land-owners, middle-class merchants, cowboys, thieves, and prostitutes. The irony found in most of the stories tempers the underlying warmth with a certain wryness, and the Brazilian humor is said to be similar to North American humor. The Crime of the Mathematics Professor is a strange plunge into the mystery of a man's sense of guilt. The stories are thoroughly Brazilian and yet universal, with a pervasive humanity in Brazil's best writers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2022
Publisher: University of California Press

This anthology features seventeen captivating stories that showcase a diverse range of contemporary and modern Brazilian themes and styles. The settings span from a nearly abandoned village nestled in the northeastern backlands to the bustling streets of Rio and Sao Paulo, creating a vivid tapestry of experiences. The characters, equally diverse, encompass a wide spectrum of backgrounds, from wealthy land-owners to middle-class merchants, cowboys, thieves, and prostitutes. Moreover, the collection showcases a remarkable variety of modes, with a notable emphasis on irony. This irony adds a wry touch to the stories, reminiscent of the best Brazilian fiction from authors like Machado de Assis to Guimaraes Rosa.

One of the standout features of this anthology is its representation of Guimaraes Rosa, the towering figure of contemporary Brazilian literature. The Third Bank of the River, an unconventional and unforgettable masterpiece, is included in this collection, showcasing Rosa's exceptional talent. Brazilian humor is often likened to North American humor, and it is abundant in this anthology. The stories exhibit a range of humor, from mordant to hilarious, casual to homely, nostalgic to melancholic. Graciliano Ramos's story of an inept thief, reminiscent of Chaplin's comedic style, is a delightful example. However, the collection also delves into a certain voluptuous melancholy, known as tristeza brasileira, which blends seamlessly with the humor to create a profoundly Brazilian tone and feeling.

In stories like My Father's Hat, this melancholic element intertwines with the humor to produce a captivating enchantment. The Crime of the Mathematics Professor is a peculiar exploration into the mystery of a man's sense of guilt, standing as a unique exception within the anthology. With the exception of this one story, the narratives in this collection are thoroughly Brazilian, yet they possess a universal appeal. The reader may encounter exotic settings and manners at times, but the characters and their experiences resonate with a pervasive humanity that transcends local boundaries. Brazil's finest writers possess a deep understanding of human nature, and even when they embrace local color, they never resort to parochialism.

In conclusion, this anthology offers a captivating glimpse into the rich tapestry of contemporary and modern Brazilian literature. Through its diverse stories, characters, and modes, it provides a profound understanding of the country. The irony, humor, melancholy, and universal humanity that permeate these narratives make them a testament to the enduring spirit. Whether you are a seasoned reader of Brazilian literature or a newcomer seeking to explore this vibrant literary landscape, this anthology is a must-read for anyone interested in discovering the depth and diversity of Brazilian storytelling.

Weight: 363g
Dimension: 216 x 140 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520358911