O Mito

Carlos Drummond de Andrade's poem "O Mito" delves into the complexities of unrequited love, societal expectations, and the idealization of a distant figure named Fulana. The narrator is infatuated with Fulana, a woman he barely knows and who remains oblivious to his existence. This unreciprocated love causes him immense pain and leads him to question the nature of his feelings—whether they are genuine or merely a product of physical attraction. The poem explores the torment of loving someone from afar, highlighting the emotional turmoil and the sense of inadequacy that accompanies such an experience.

Fulana is depicted as a multifaceted character, embodying both the allure and the unattainability of an idealized figure. She is portrayed as a woman of high social standing, involved in various activities and surrounded by luxury. Despite her seemingly perfect life, she remains out of reach for the narrator, who is left to grapple with his feelings of longing and despair. The poem uses vivid imagery and metaphors to convey the narrator's obsession, such as his desire to invade her private space and reveal her true self to the world. This desire, however, is tempered by his realization that such actions would only cause harm to both Fulana and himself.

The poem also serves as a critique of societal norms and the superficiality of social interactions. Fulana represents the unattainable ideals perpetuated by society, and the narrator's struggle reflects the broader human experience of yearning for something beyond reach. Drummond de Andrade's use of classical references and rich language adds depth to the poem, making it a poignant exploration of love, desire, and the human condition. The narrator's ultimate realization that he and Fulana are fundamentally different, yet connected by their shared humanity, underscores the poem's message about the complexities of love and the illusions we create around it.