Campo de Flores

Carlos Drummond de Andrade's poem "Campo de Flores" delves into the profound and complex nature of mature love. The poet begins by acknowledging that this love was given to him by a divine or perhaps diabolical force, suggesting a blend of gratitude and ambivalence. This love arrives in a period of life where the fruits of one's labor are either unharvested or tainted, symbolizing a time of reflection and introspection. The poet appreciates this love, recognizing it as a gift that allows him to revisit and create new myths, transforming himself into a radiant yet shadowy figure, embodying both presence and absence.

As the poem progresses, Drummond explores the transformative power of this mature love. He describes a sense of self-discovery and renewal, where old mornings that never smiled upon him now do so through the shadow of his beloved. This love, though mature and perhaps tinged with melancholy, brings a sense of fulfillment and purpose. The poet reflects on the passage of time, comparing the process of love to the making of wine or the coagulation of blood, emphasizing the depth and intensity of his emotions. The imagery of flowers blooming in unlikely places further underscores the idea that love can flourish even in the most unexpected circumstances.

In the final stanzas, Drummond contemplates the dual nature of love, which offers both anguish and joy. He speaks of a sacred terror that transforms into jubilation, highlighting the paradoxical emotions that love can evoke. The poet acknowledges the need for patience and perhaps a touch of irony in navigating this mature love. He concludes with a poignant reflection on the timelessness of love, suggesting that despite the passage of time, love remains a guiding light that confounds and illuminates his existence. Through "Campo de Flores," Drummond captures the essence of mature love, with its complexities, transformations, and enduring beauty.