Published on March 27, 2026
The carnival has passed, and it’s time to return with this column. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t still beach and mate in this first text of 2026. It was a Sunday in February—one with less sun than we would have liked—at Flamengo Beach in Rio. Still, there were umbrellas open and people strolling about.
The local atmosphere was a vibrant mix of laughter and chatter, with the soothing sound of waves in the background. The effects of the carnival lingered in the air, as families and friends gathered to relax and enjoy the last warm days of summer before the city transitioned into autumn.
However, amidst the festive spirit and relaxation, there remains a pressing necessity for literature to circulate more widely. In a world increasingly dominated digital distractions, the printed book still holds a unique charm that deserves to be cherished.
Local authors, poets, and independent publishers face challenging times, struggling against the global push towards e-books and online content. Yet, the tactile feel of a physical book—the smell of its pages, the weight in your hands—creates an experience that can never be replicated by a digital device.
Communities thrive on stories. They fuel creativity, provoke thought, and foster connections among people. Hence, it’s crucial to promote local literature, encouraging reading not just as a pastime but as a cultural necessity.
Initiatives like book fairs, local author meet-and-greets, and community reading programs can serve as fundamental ways to not only circulate books but also to bring residents together. When a book is shared, it becomes a part of a communal narrative, enriching lives in ways that are profoundly human.
As we look ahead, the calling remains strong: we must ensure that books continue to circulate widely, bridging gaps between generations, cultures, and communities. It’s not just about selling a product; it’s about preserving the soul of storytelling, something that can strengthen our society and fortify our cultural identity.
While the sun may not have shone as brightly on that February day at Flamengo Beach, the light of literature can illuminate our paths, bringing warmth, knowledge, and connection to the forefront of our communal experiences.
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