The experiences of being in Voltaire and Cecilia Meireles

Abstract

This article seeks to conduct a comparative analysis between “Candide ou l’optimisme,” by Voltaire (1694 – 1778), and the poem “Mar Absoluto” by Cecília Meireles (1901 – 1964). Despite the considerable temporal gap separating these literary pieces, we contend that a literary dialogue between the French philosopher and the Brazilian poet remains viable due to the thematic resonance in their respective creations. In both Voltaire’s short story and Cecília Meireles’s poem, a profound preoccupation with the philosophical exploration of the human condition is evident. While acknowledging the unique attributes of each author and the distinct eras in which these works were produced, the shared thematic thread lies in the pursuit of understanding and the broadening of the existential path.