The Quarters of Erika e a madrugada, by David Mourão-Ferreira

Abstract

This article aims to go through Erika e a Madrugada, the fourth and final short story from the book As quatro estações, by David Mourão-Ferreira. In this quaternary literary work, in which each of the short stories appears to mean a phase of the year's season of life and of love, the character Erika seems to embody winter, dusk, or a break while waiting for a new beginning. This research discusses the multiplicity of meanings that literary works arouse in common (and uncommon) readers. This article also intends to unveil the whispers of a short story found within the four walls of Erika's room, lit by the night and looking at the open window to the city and to the dawns of Davidian femininity, the finitude of lovers, or the time that passes beyond appeal.