Nosso Tempo

Carlos Drummond de Andrade's poem 'Nosso Tempo' is a profound exploration of the fragmented and tumultuous nature of contemporary life. The poem is divided into eight sections, each delving into different aspects of societal disintegration and personal disillusionment. Drummond's use of vivid imagery and metaphors paints a picture of a world where people are divided, both physically and emotionally, and where traditional values and certainties have crumbled.

In the first section, Drummond sets the tone by describing a time of division and brokenness. He speaks of men who are 'partidos' (broken) and laws that are insufficient. The imagery of 'carne fogo sapatos' (meat, fire, shoes) represents basic human needs that are unmet, highlighting a sense of desperation and chaos. The poet's words are 'roucas e duras' (hoarse and hard), reflecting the frustration and anger that have built up over time, seeking an outlet.

As the poem progresses, Drummond delves deeper into the themes of alienation and loss. The second section speaks of 'divisas' (divisions) and 'gente cortada' (cut people), emphasizing the physical and emotional fragmentation of society. The imagery of 'mãos viajando sem braços' (hands traveling without arms) and 'obscenos gestos avulsos' (obscene isolated gestures) further underscores the disconnection and disintegration of human relationships. The poet laments the loss of innocence and the transformation of familiar places and symbols into something unrecognizable and disturbing.

In the later sections, Drummond reflects on the passage of time and the persistence of certain stories and memories. He describes a house filled with 'quartos terríveis' (terrible rooms) and 'celas fechadas' (closed cells), symbolizing the hidden and often painful aspects of personal and collective history. The poet calls upon various figures, both real and imagined, to recount their stories and reveal the truths that have been suppressed or forgotten. The final sections of the poem highlight the poet's rejection of the capitalist world and his commitment to using his words and symbols to help dismantle it. Drummond's 'Nosso Tempo' is a powerful and evocative meditation on the complexities and contradictions of modern life, urging readers to confront the harsh realities and seek meaningful change.