In a recent ranking, these 7 Portuguese novels have been recognized as some of the finest books of the 21st century and are strongly recommended for reading.
In the rich tapestry of modern literature, Portugal stands as a beacon of creativity and introspection. One of the most acclaimed contemporary Portuguese writers is José Luís Peixoto, whose works, particularly his award-winning novel Galveias, delve deeply into emotional and intellectual complexities, touching upon themes of identity and personal history [3].
Beyond Peixoto, emerging and indie publishers such as Emporium Editora and Gato Bravo are thriving environments where contemporary novels exploring themes of colonial trauma, old age, madness, and identity often appear [1]. These publishers, known for their daring approach to literature, might be the breeding ground for authors addressing such complex social themes.
While direct mentions of novels focusing exclusively on these themes are limited in available search results, a deeper dive into Portuguese literature reveals a wealth of intriguing works. For instance, the José Saramago Award, which Peixoto has won, could provide more examples of novels that intricately explore these themes.
One such work is Gonçalo M. Tavares' "Jerusalem," a novel set in an anonymous city with Kafkaesque resonances, where six characters with troubled pasts evolve between madness and war memories [2]. The characters, including Hinnerk, a former soldier haunted by his crimes, Hanna, a schizophrenic, and Marius, a voyeuristic photographer, intersect in an oppressive night, their fates intertwined in a web of intrigue.
Another notable work is Dulce Maria Cardoso's "The Return," which won the José Saramago Prize in 2005. The novel explores the experiences of the "retornados," Portuguese repatriated from Africa after 1975. In the story, the adolescent Rui, returned from Angola, discovers a hostile metropolis in a seedy hotel packed with refugees [4].
The Nobel laureate José Saramago also contributed significantly to Portuguese literature with his novel "The Cave," published in 2000. This work transposes Plato's allegory into contemporary Portugal, focusing on a potter named Cipriano Algor confronting the closure of his workshop due to industrial competition [5].
Other notable works include "The Memorable" by Lídia Jorge, a novel published in 2014 that focuses on the enigmatic aunt Ana Isa, a figure of the revolutionary movement [6]. The novel delves into the family history of a public television journalist to question the shadows of the Carnation Revolution.
António Lobo Antunes' "What will I do when everything burns?" is another compelling read. The psychiatrist and former combatant in Angola blends stream of consciousness and disjointed dialogues in this novel, which delves into family fractures and the aftermath of colonial war [7].
Lastly, Valter Hugo Mãe's "The Son of a Thousand Men," published in 2016, is described as a "medicine novel" where love heals all wounds [8]. In another unique twist, "Jesus Christ Drank Beer" by Afonso Cruz sets an eccentric English billionaire transforming a village into a fake Jerusalem [9].
In summary, contemporary Portuguese literature offers a rich and diverse landscape for readers seeking introspective narratives that tackle complex social themes. From the works of acclaimed authors like Peixoto and Saramago to the bold publications of Emporium Editora and Gato Bravo, there is a wealth of literature waiting to be discovered.
