Poem of the day

Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night

Dylan Thomas
Do not go gentle into that good night, 
Old age should burn and rave at close of day; 
Rage, rage against the dying of the light. 

Though wise men at their end know dark is right, 
Because their words had forked no lightning they 
Do not go gentle into that good night. 

Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright 
Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay, 
Rage, rage against the dying of the light. 

Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight, 
And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way, 
Do not go gentle into that good night. 

Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight 
Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay, 
Rage, rage against the dying of the light. 

And you, my father, there on that sad height, 
Curse, bless, me now with your fierce tears, I pray. 
Do not go gentle into that good night. 
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.
Read full poem

Born on this day

14
Sá de Miranda

Francisco de Sá de Miranda was a Portuguese poet and playwright, a prominent figure of the Renaissance in Portugal. He is known for introducing new poetic forms of Italian inspiration, such as the sonnet and the eclogue, which would profoundly influence later Portuguese poetry. His work, marked by a deep humanism and classicism, explored themes such as love, nature, the fleetingness of time, and social criticism, establishing a new aesthetic standard in Portuguese literature and influencing generations of poets.

Walter Dimenstein

Walter Dimenstein is a poet distinguished by his ability to capture the essence of urban life and the complexities of the human being in contemporary times. His poetry, marked by direct and sometimes ironic language, reflects on daily life, social relationships, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world. Dimenstein explores poetry as a mirror of reality, with a keen eye for the details and emotions that shape individual experience.

Chagas Correia

Chagas Correia was an Angolan poet and writer, whose work is a reflection of his identity and the complexities of Angola. His poetry is often associated with themes of national identity, history, culture, and the struggle for the affirmation of the Angolan people. It is characterized by a strong connection to the land and its people, expressed in a language that evokes orality and the strength of traditions.

Hermes Fontes

Hermes Fontes was a Brazilian poet, professor, and literary critic, known for his formally crafted poetry and themes that explore the human condition, religiosity, and the search for transcendental meaning. His work belongs to the lyrical tradition, with emphasis on musicality and aesthetic rigor. He was also a scholar of literature, working as a professor and critic, contributing to the dissemination and analysis of literary works.

Jacira Lima

Jacira Lima is a Brazilian poet known for her work that straddles lyricism and social denunciation. Her poetry, often marked by strong emotional charge and the exploration of themes such as female identity, ancestry, and social inequalities, seeks to give voice to those who have historically been silenced. With a powerful and imagistic language, Jacira Lima constructs verses that invite reflection on Brazilian reality and the pursuit of justice and recognition.

Teixeira de Melo

António de Azevedo Teixeira de Melo was a prominent Portuguese writer, playwright, and journalist. His work spans a variety of genres, but he particularly excelled in theater, where his comedies and dramas acidly and humorously explored the customs of the society of his time. He was an active figure in the literary and political circles of the 19th century, known for his intelligence and critical spirit.

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was a prolific German writer, poet, playwright, and statesman whose vast body of work significantly impacted European literature and thought. His writings explored profound themes of nature, humanity, science, and the human condition, often blending romantic idealism with classical restraint. Goethe's influence extended beyond literature; he was also a respected figure in science and politics, embodying the ideal of the well-rounded Renaissance man. His literary creations, such as "Faust," remain cornerstones of world literature.

A Legacy
João Herméto Coelho de Amarante

João Herméto Coelho de Amarante was a Portuguese writer, known for his literary work that spanned various genres. His writing, often marked by sharp observation of society and exploration of complex human themes, earned him a place in the literary landscape of his time. He was also recognized for his contributions in areas such as journalism and literary criticism, demonstrating versatility and a deep interest in culture.

Justo Navarro

Justo Navarro is a Spanish writer whose literary work, especially his novels, is distinguished by a refined prose and by a deep exploration of character psychology and the complexities of human relationships. His narrative addresses themes such as memory, identity, desire, and social tensions with an introspective perspective. With a style that combines formal rigor and sensitivity, Navarro has established himself as a relevant author in contemporary Spanish literature, inviting the reader to immerse themselves in the nuances of the human experience.

Died on this day

9
Fernando Guedes

Fernando Guedes is a Portuguese poet and writer, known for his work that oscillates between lyricism and reflection on the human condition. His poetry is marked by careful language and the exploration of themes such as time, memory, identity, and human relationships. Through introspective and often melancholic writing, Guedes invites the reader to delve into the complexities of existence and find beauty in the transience of life. His work, though sometimes understated in the mainstream literary scene, possesses a unique strength and an audience appreciative of his sensitivity and depth.

Alphonsus de Guimaraens Filho

Alphonsus de Guimaraens Filho was a Brazilian poet, son of the renowned poet Alphonsus de Guimaraens, following in his father's footsteps in literature with a body of work marked by musicality, mysticism, and deep religious sensibility. His poetry, although sometimes associated with symbolism, developed its own voice, exploring themes of faith, transcendence, love, and the search for ideal beauty. His delicate and evocative lyrics contribute to the rich tapestry of Brazilian poetry.

Rafael Días Icaza

Rafael Días Icaza was a poet whose work stood out for its exploration of existential themes and its ability to transfigure the everyday into poetic art. His writing is marked by deep sensitivity and a keen eye for the complexities of the human soul, reflecting on the ephemerality of life and the search for meaning. A poet of a generation seeking new forms of expression, Días Icaza contributed to the renewal of poetic language, combining tradition with a contemporary vision. His work, though sometimes discreet, resonates with its authenticity and the strength of its imagery, inviting reflection on the human condition.

Walmir Ayala

Walmir Ayala was a Brazilian poet, short story writer, novelist, essayist, and literary critic. His work is marked by the exploration of existential themes, irony, and concise and precise language. He developed a multifaceted career, also acting as an editor and translator, and left a significant legacy in contemporary Brazilian literature.

João Mendes

João Mendes was a poet whose work stood out for its lyrical depth and exploration of universal themes. His writing is marked by careful language and a unique sensitivity in capturing the nuances of human experience. With a poetic production that moves between introspection and observation of the world, João Mendes left a legacy that continues to resonate with readers and literary critics.

Lorenzo Montano

Lorenzo Montano is a contemporary Italian writer. His literary work is recognized for experimentation and the exploration of new narrative forms. He is dedicated to investigating the frontiers of language and representation, seeking to break with established conventions. With a career focused on innovation, Montano addresses themes that frequently question the perception of reality and the subjectivity of the individual. His writing is marked by stylistic boldness and a constant search for renewal.

Herib Campos Cervera

Herib Campos Cervera was a Paraguayan poet whose work is characterized by a deep reflection on the social and political reality of his country. His poetry, marked by commitment and denunciation, addresses themes such as oppression, injustice, and the search for freedom. He is considered one of the most important voices in contemporary Paraguayan poetry.