Maria Amalia Vaz de Carvalho
Pelo mundo fóra
"Pelo mundo fóra" by Maria Amalia Vaz de Carvalho is a travel narrative written in the late 19th century. The work delves into the author's reflections on travel, culture, and the longing for artistic and intellectual fulfillment, particularly emphasizing her infatuation with Paris and its historical figures. It explores themes of nostalgia, the conflict between reality and idealism, and the emotional journey of seeking beauty and enlightenment through travel. At the start of the narrative, the author expresses a deep and passionate yearning for the pleasures and adventures associated with travel, framing it as a quest for happiness and new experiences. She reflects on her anticipated arrival in Paris, a city she idealizes as the cradle of freedom and the site of historical brilliance. However, upon her arrival, she finds herself confronting not only the physical distance from her homeland, Portugal, but also the emotional detachment from the very inspirations that had drawn her to Paris. This opening effectively sets the stage for a meditation on identity, nostalgia, and the complex relationship between one’s aspirations and the stark realities of life.