Saudades: sensibilities in letters from Portuguese e/immigrants (Portugal-Brazil 1890-1930)

Abstract

Based on letters between Portuguese immigrants in Brazil and their families in Portugal, this article analyzes the sensibilities present in these writings, in particular expressions of saudade. The letters and correspondence investigated were located in the Museu dos Imigrantes de São Paulo (deposited in the Arquivo Público do Estado de São Paulo - Apesp) and District Archives in Porto and Braga, Portugal. These letters not only portray displacement and distancing processes but are also products of both, documenting the worlds of origin and destination. Through them it can be perceived how they configured relationships made vulnerable by the long distance and time of separation, in which it was sought to overcome distance, perpetuate affections, strengthen ties, and fight against saudade.

Keywords:
saudade; letters; Portuguese immigrants