On Friday, September 11, Cris Lira, an assistant professor at the University of Georgia, launched her latest book, “A Casa Eterna,” at Creature Comforts Brewing Co. This collection of Portuguese-language poetry marks its American debut after being first published in Brazil by the artist collective Mulherio das Letras, aimed at promoting women writers.
Lira describes her writing process as an auditory experience, inviting readers to engage in a “dance” with her words. Mulherio das Letras, established in 2016 as a Facebook group, addresses the underrepresentation of women in Brazilian literature. Their first published collection in 2019 was nominated for the prestigious Prêmio Jabuti award.
During the launch event, attendees included members of the Portuguese department, highlighting the cultural exchange between Brazil and Athens. Bruno Sales, assistant director of the Portuguese Flagship Program, praised Lira’s dedication and the way her work embodies the experiences of womanhood.
Lira’s poems often reflect her identity as a Brazilian in the U.S., dealing with broader themes of femininity. One poignant piece, titled “22 de Fevereiro,” honors Laken Riley, a nursing student murdered in Athens. The title of the book itself comes from a poem that explores the longing for a life full of joy amidst the complexities of living as a foreigner. Lira articulated the duality of her experience, teaching and living in Portuguese while navigating an English-speaking world.
