Famous Brazilian Poets

Joaquim Maria Machado de Assis was a pioneering Brazilian novelist, poet, playwright, and short story writer widely recognized as the greatest writer of Brazilian literature. He founded and served as the first President of the Brazilian Academy of Letters. Machado was multilingual, teaching himself French, English, German, and Greek. Despite coming from a poor background and lacking formal education, he achieved early fame through his work in newspapers, offering insightful social critiques and shaping the realist movement in Brazil. His notable works include "Dom Casmurro," "Memórias Póstumas de Brás Cubas," and "Quincas Borba."

Vinícius de Moraes was a multifaceted Brazilian professional, known for his roles as a poet, diplomat, lyricist, essayist, musician, singer, and playwright. He collaborated with prominent musicians like Antônio Carlos Jobim, playing a crucial role in the development and global dissemination of bossa nova music. Moraes recorded multiple albums with various artists, establishing himself as a successful career diplomat for Brazil. His work in music and poetry left a lasting impact on Brazilian culture and the international music scene.

Cazuza was a prominent Brazilian singer and songwriter known for his contributions to Brazilian rock music. He gained recognition both as a solo artist and while fronting Barão Vermelho. Over his 9-year career, Cazuza sold over 5 million albums and produced 11 number one singles and 18 Top 10 singles in Brazil. Alongside artists like Raul Seixas, Renato Russo, and Os Mutantes, Cazuza is regarded as one of the most influential figures in Brazilian music history.

Mário de Andrade was a versatile Brazilian figure in the realms of poetry, novel writing, musicology, art history, and criticism. He was a pioneer of ethnomusicology and played a pivotal role in the modernist movement in São Paulo. Known for his influential poetry collection "Paulicéia Desvairada" and novel "Macunaíma," Andrade's impact extended beyond Brazil. He was a key member of the avant-garde "Group of Five" and organized the Modern Art Week in 1922, reshaping Brazilian literature and visual arts. Later, he became the founding director of São Paulo's Department of Culture.

Carlos Drummond de Andrade was a renowned Brazilian poet and writer, widely regarded as one of the greatest poets in Brazilian literature. His works have left a lasting impact on the literary landscape, with his poem "Canção Amiga" being particularly influential. Drummond de Andrade's contributions have solidified his status as a national cultural symbol in Brazil, reflecting his profound influence and significance in the country's artistic and literary spheres.

Antônio Gonçalves Dias was a Brazilian Romantic poet, playwright, ethnographer, lawyer, and linguist. He was a leading figure in Brazilian Romanticism and the "Indianism" literary tradition. Known for works such as "Canção do exílio," "I-Juca-Pirama," and the epic "Os Timbiras," he was posthumously honored as the national poet of Brazil. Gonçalves Dias also made significant contributions as a researcher of Native Brazilian languages and folklore. His legacy is further recognized as the patron of the 15th chair of the Brazilian Academy of Letters.

Oswald de Andrade was a prominent Brazilian poet, novelist, and cultural critic known for his contributions to Brazilian modernism. He was a key figure in the Group of Five, alongside other influential artists. Andrade played a crucial role in the Modern Art Week, a significant event that revolutionized Brazilian cultural and artistic landscapes. His work and involvement in various artistic movements solidified his position as a leading figure in Brazilian literature and cultural criticism.

Antônio Frederico de Castro Alves was a Brazilian poet and playwright known for his abolitionist and republican works. He was a prominent figure in the Condorist movement and a key player in the abolitionist campaign in Brazil. His poems, plays, and literary works such as "Espumas Flutuantes," "Hinos do Equador," and "Gonzaga" earned him titles like "The Poet of the Slaves" and "republican poet." He is considered the greatest Brazilian romantic poet, with a significant influence on social and political ideas of his time.

João Cabral de Melo Neto was a prominent Brazilian poet and diplomat known for his significant contributions to late Brazilian modernism. He was recognized with prestigious awards such as the Camões Prize and the Neustadt International Prize for Literature, making him the sole Brazilian poet to achieve such recognition. Throughout his career, Melo Neto's works showcased a meticulous focus on formal aspects of poetry, incorporating traditional verse structures and innovative rhyme schemes. His poetry explored themes of poverty and inequality, particularly in his native northeastern Brazil.

Cecília Meireles was a prominent Brazilian writer and educator, primarily recognized as a poet. She played a significant role in Brazilian Modernism and is regarded as one of the most distinguished female poets in the Portuguese language. Meireles traveled extensively throughout the Americas in the 1940s, delivering lectures and writing about her experiences. As a journalist, she focused on educational issues and her global travels. Her poetic style leaned towards neosymbolism, exploring themes of time and contemplation. Meireles also made notable contributions to educational reforms and advocated for children's libraries.

Gregório de Matos was a renowned Portuguese Baroque poet from Colonial Brazil, known for his satirical works that often critiqued the Catholic Church, earning him the nickname "Boca do Inferno" (Hell's Mouth). Despite also writing lyrical and religious poems, it was his satirical pieces that brought him fame. His bold and critical approach set him apart in the literary scene of his time. He is honored as the patron of the 16th chair of the Brazilian Academy of Letters, showcasing his lasting impact on Brazilian literature.

Haroldo de Campos was a renowned Brazilian poet, critic, professor, and translator known for his significant contributions to literature. His professional life was marked by a deep engagement with avant-garde movements and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional literary forms. Campos was a key figure in the Brazilian literary scene from the 1950s onwards, influencing generations of writers and scholars with his innovative approach to poetry and translation. He played a pivotal role in shaping the direction of Brazilian literature and leaving a lasting impact on the literary landscape.

Rui Ribeiro Couto, known as Ribeiro Couto, was a versatile Brazilian professional with roles as a journalist, magistrate, diplomat, poet, short story writer, and novelist. He was a prominent member of the Academia Brasileira de Letras, occupying the seat previously held by Constâncio Alves. Throughout his career, Ribeiro Couto made significant contributions to Brazilian literature, journalism, and diplomacy, leaving a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of his country.

Gregorio Duvivier is a prominent Brazilian actor, comedian, and poet known for his contributions to film and theater. He gained recognition as a member of the acclaimed comedy ensemble Porta dos Fundos. Duvivier's versatile talent shines through in his performances, showcasing his comedic timing and creative storytelling abilities. His work in both film and theater has been well-received by audiences and critics alike, solidifying his reputation as a skilled and versatile entertainer in the Brazilian entertainment industry.

Augusto de Campos is a prominent figure in Brazilian literature, known for his contributions to the Concrete poetry movement alongside his brother Haroldo de Campos. He is recognized for his work as a writer, translator, music critic, and visual artist. Campos has made significant strides in the realm of poetry, particularly in exploring the visual aspects of language and typography. His multidisciplinary approach to art has garnered him international recognition and established him as a leading figure in the field of experimental poetry and visual arts.

João da Cruz e Sousa was a prominent Brazilian poet and journalist known for his contributions to Symbolist poetry. He played a significant role in shaping Brazilian literature as one of the first Symbolist poets in the country. His work earned him the titles of "Black Dante" and "Black Swan," highlighting his African heritage. Additionally, he was honored as the patron of the 15th chair of the Academia Catarinense de Letras, further solidifying his legacy in Brazilian literary circles.

Bernardo Joaquim da Silva Guimarães was a Brazilian poet and novelist known for his famous romances A Escrava Isaura and O Seminarista. He introduced the verso bestialógico to Brazilian poetry, writing nonsensical yet metrical verses. Guimarães was a key figure in the literary scene, founding the "Sociedade Epicureia" and collaborating on projects like As Três Liras. He held various roles including judge and teacher, contributing as a literary critic and educator. Despite facing financial struggles, his legacy lives on through his influential works and literary contributions.

Manuel Bandeira was a prominent Brazilian poet, literary critic, and translator known for his significant contributions to Brazilian literature. Throughout his professional life, he wrote over 20 books encompassing poetry and prose, showcasing his versatile talent in various literary forms. Bandeira's works are characterized by their emotional depth, vivid imagery, and introspective themes, reflecting his keen observation of human experiences and emotions. His literary legacy continues to inspire and resonate with readers, cementing his reputation as a key figure in Brazilian literature.

Tomás António Gonzaga was a prominent Portuguese poet known for his work during the Neoclassical period in colonial Brazil. Not only was he a respected writer, but he also held important positions in the legal field, serving as an ouvidor, ombudsman, and desembargador in various cities. Writing under the pen name Dirceu, Gonzaga left a lasting impact on Brazilian literature and culture. His contributions to the Brazilian Academy of Letters further solidified his legacy as a key figure in the country's literary history.

Farah Chamma is a Palestinian spoken-word poet based in the United Arab Emirates, known for her multilingual abilities in Arabic, English, French, German, Spanish, and Portuguese. She is a prominent figure in the poetry scene, being part of the Poeticians Club and founding the Parea band, blending music with spoken-word. Chamma has performed at various events and festivals globally, including the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature and has released popular YouTube videos of her recitations. She holds a master's in performance and culture from Goldsmiths, University of London.

Jorge de Lima was a versatile figure in Brazilian society, excelling in multiple fields. Initially trained as a physician, he felt a strong pull towards writing and pursued a career as a poet, novelist, and biographer. Balancing his medical practice with his literary pursuits, Jorge de Lima made significant contributions to both fields. Later in his career, he expanded his horizons further by entering politics, showcasing his diverse interests and talents across various professional domains.

Santa Rita Durão was a Colonial Brazilian Neoclassic poet, orator, and Augustinian friar known for his epic poem Caramuru, considered a precursor to "Indianism" in Brazilian literature. He studied at the Jesuit College in Rio de Janeiro before becoming an Augustinian priest in Europe. Persecuted during the Marquis of Pombal's rule, he fled to Rome where he worked as a librarian for 20 years. Despite facing criticism for his work Caramuru, he is recognized as the patron of the 9th chair of the Brazilian Academy of Letters.

Sérgio Sant'Anna was a prominent Brazilian writer known for his innovative and experimental literary style. Throughout his career, he authored numerous novels, short stories, and essays that explored themes such as identity, politics, and urban life. His works often challenged traditional narrative structures and pushed boundaries in Brazilian literature. Sant'Anna's writing was characterized by its complexity, depth, and intellectual rigor, earning him recognition as a leading figure in the Brazilian literary scene.

Olga Savary was a prominent Brazilian writer, poet, and literary critic known for her significant contributions to Brazilian literature. Throughout her career, she produced a diverse body of work that captured the essence of Brazilian culture and society. Savary's writings often focused on themes of identity, nature, and the human experience, showcasing her deep understanding of language and poetic expression. As a respected literary figure, she garnered acclaim for her innovative style and powerful storytelling, solidifying her legacy as a revered voice in Brazilian literature.

José Basílio da Gama was a prominent colonial Brazilian poet and Jesuit member. He gained acclaim for his renowned epic poem O Uraguai, written under the pen name Termindo Sipílio. Basílio da Gama's literary contributions earned him the honor of being named the patron of the 4th chair of the Brazilian Academy of Letters. Throughout his professional life, he made significant strides in the Brazilian literary scene, leaving a lasting impact on the country's cultural heritage.

Murilo Mendes was a Brazilian Modernist poet known for his contributions to the Surrealist movement in Brazil. His professional life was marked by a prolific output of poetry, essays, and translations, earning him recognition as a leading figure in Brazilian literature. Mendes collaborated with other prominent writers and artists, both in Brazil and internationally, further establishing his influence on the literary scene. His innovative and experimental approach to poetry set him apart as a visionary poet who pushed the boundaries of traditional poetic forms.

Ciro Pessoa Mendes Corrêa, also known as Tenzin Chöpel, was a versatile Brazilian artist known for his contributions to the music industry. He co-founded the influential rock band Titãs and later worked with the post-punk/gothic rock band Cabine C. Throughout the early to mid-1990s, he formed several short-lived projects. In 2003, he embarked on a solo career. In addition to being a singer-songwriter, he was also a lyricist, guitarist, screenwriter, journalist, and poet, showcasing his diverse talents and creativity in the arts.