Cora Coralina published her first book in 1965, when she was 75 years old. But true recognition came only at the age of 91, in 1980, when the poet Carlos Drummond de Andrade wrote an article about her in the Jornal do Brasil.
I don't remember the exact moment I heard about it, but in my youth, there was a story about a little lady and a book of poetry called "Vintém de Cobre". At that time, living in a country town and with little contact with literature, television was our main source of information. That's how I fell in love with the poetry and the story of this woman who published her first book at the age of 75 and only gained recognition at the age of 90. We're talking about Cora Coralina, Aninha, Ana Lins dos Guimarães Peixoto Bretas.
Aninha's memories
Aninha's memories revolved around her childhood and life in her hometown, Goiás, and the traditions that shaped her path. 'Copper Vintém - half confessions of Aninha' was the third book published by Cora, in 1983. Its title refers to an old Brazilian coin of little value, and its content is simple and essential as her memoirs. They are poems that explore themes of childhood and reflections on life. All expressed in lyrical verses, which transport you to a universe that celebrates the past.
Ana Lins dos Guimarães Peixoto Bretas - Aninha
She was born in 1889, in the midst of a conservative society dominated by strict gender standards, a girl born under the sign of Leo, who was enchanted by words from a young age. At the age of fourteen, he began to write his verses, even publishing them in local newspapers, such as, for example, the literary periodical "A Rosa", which hosted some of his first writings. In 1910, Ana got married and moved to São Paulo, where she experienced important historical events such as the Revolution of 1924, the rise and fall of Getúlio Vargas and the Constitutionalist Revolution of 1932.
Amid these events, she lived in the interior of São Paulo and, after becoming a widow and, only in 1956, she returned to Goiás, her homeland. It was there that the confectioner emerged, intertwining memories and sugar, creating poems of unique simplicity and lyricism. At the age of seventy, she learned to type and resumed the pseudonym adopted at fifteen. At the age of 75, he published his first book, "Poemas dos Becos de Goiás e Estórias Mais".
The recognition of Carlos Drumond de Andrade
However, it was at age 90 that the big recognition came. A letter from Carlos Drummond de Andrade, one of the most renowned Brazilian poets, reached her. And when she released her book "Copper Vint", Drummond wrote:
“Your Vintém de Cobre is, for me, a gold coin, and a gold coin that does not suffer from market fluctuations. It is one of the most direct and communicative poetry I have ever read and loved. What richness of human experience, what special sensitivity and what lyricism identified with the sources of life! Aninha doesn't belong today. It is the heritage of all of us, who were born in Brazil and love poetry (...)”
Carlos Drummond de Andrade – Rio de Janeiro, October 7, 1983
Reflections on Aninha
It's been a long time since I read Copper Vintém, and life always reveals surprises that make us question: what legacy will we leave here in this world?< /p>
At these times, remembering Cora's story brings a smile to her face, as she was an example of the possibilities that life can offer us, regardless of the moment we are living. Cora sparked my passion from my youth, and her book "Pepper Vint" continues to accompany me to this day.
Analyzing her trajectory, it is impossible not to recognize the legacy she left us as an icon of resilience and inspiration, highlighting the possibility of starting a career at any age. Like her, I understand that inner youth, creativity and willingness to explore and build are not limited by the chronology of the years. Cora Coralina reminds us that it is essential to keep this perspective in mind in order to embrace new passions and seek unexplored horizons, just as she did throughout her remarkable life.
🌼📚 If you were inspired by the story of Cora Coralina, share it with someone who is too you can find motivation in this trajectory of overcoming obstacles! 🌟 And be sure to explore more inspiring articles on our website. Together, let's celebrate stories that transcend time and push us to follow our dreams! 💖
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