Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen belongs to the literary record as a writer whose work outlasted the moment that produced it.
The record lists Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen as Portuguese poet and writer (1919–2004).
Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen was born at Porto in 1919. Her recorded nationality is Portugal. She was educated at University of Lisbon.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Twentieth-century writing was shaped by war, exile and translation; many of its major careers were conducted across more than one language and country.
She worked as poet, translator and children's writer.
The writing is recorded in Portuguese and English.
Literature is judged by re-reading, which is a slower and harsher test than acclaim.
Recognition followed: Camões Prize (1999), Grand Cross of the Order of Prince Henry (1987), Grand Cross of the Military Order of Saint James of the Sword (1998) and Grand Officer of the Military Order of Saint James of the Sword (1981).
That the work was written from Portugal matters: language, censorship and the reach of a publishing industry decide which books travel and which stay local.
Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen died in 2004, aged 85. The books remain, which is the only durable form a writing life takes.
Achievements
- Camões Prize — 1999
- Grand Cross of the Order of Prince Henry — 1987
- Grand Cross of the Military Order of Saint James of the Sword — 1998
- Grand Officer of the Military Order of Saint James of the Sword — 1981
