CECÍLIA AND ALFONSO: EDUCATION AND CULTURAL EXCHANGE IN BRAZIL-MEXICO EPISTOLARY DIALOGUES (1930-1936)

Abstract

Investigating the dialogues woven between Cecília Meireles and Alfonso Reyes between the years 1931 to 1940 is the purpose of this study. Reyes, poet, essayist, Mexican translator and ambassador to Brazil between 1930 and 1936, established a deep dialogue with Cecília based on common interests: literature and education. The 16 letters that resulted from this exchange, most of them from the early days of the friendship, can be found in the Capilla Alfonsina, in Mexico. Reyes was the builder of a solid cultural and literary bridge between Mexico and Brazil, and in the midst of the political and bureaucratic tasks that he had to perform, he spread the culture of his country and contributed to stimulating the discussion of policies of peace and approximation. between Brazil and Spanish-American countries. He had works and conferences published and commented on the “Página de Educação” and collaborated in the organization of the children's library. Although we recognize the affection and admiration present in the epistolary writing, a certain respectful detachment is perceived and Cecília's letters to Alfonso register a lower degree of intimacy and confidentiality.