Declaração Em Juízo
Carlos Drummond de Andrade
The Loneliness of Survival: A Poetic Reflection
Carlos Drummond de Andrade's poem "Declaração Em Juízo" delves into the existential musings of a 'survivor' who finds himself alone after everyone else has departed. The speaker begins by apologizing for being the last one standing, emphasizing that it wasn't by choice or design. This sets the tone for a reflection on the absurdity and melancholy of outliving one's peers. The imagery of an empty theater, with the actor left on stage after the audience has gone, poignantly captures the sense of isolation and purposelessness that the speaker feels.
The poem explores the concept of survival not as a triumph but as a burden. The speaker insists that he did nothing to deserve this prolonged existence and did not actively seek to outlive others. This survival is depicted as a passive state, a result of circumstances rather than intention. The speaker's survival is marked by a lack of true living, described as a series of postponements and rehearsals for a life that never fully materialized. This notion of 'surviving' rather than 'living' underscores a profound sense of unfulfillment and existential limbo.
As the poem progresses, the speaker grapples with the discomfort of his own existence. He describes himself as a 'survivor' who is more troubling than a ghost, constantly confronting his own reflection and the reality of his situation. The poem concludes with a resigned acceptance of his fate, acknowledging that nothing can be done to change his status as a survivor. The final lines reflect a sense of futility and indifference from the world, highlighting the speaker's isolation and the insignificance of his plight in the grand scheme of things. Drummond de Andrade's poignant exploration of survival, isolation, and the search for meaning resonates deeply, offering a contemplative look at the human condition.