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Loading... Lula é Minha Antaby Diogo Mainardi
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A constant feature in the authoritative and nationally distributed {Veja}, Mainardi's texts in this collection have appeared in 94 issues of that magazine between 2005 and 2007. Following the 2004 book publication of his {cro nicas} from {Veja} issues of previous years, {A tapas e pontape s} (also by Record), this present gathering reflects a consistent concern with the deeds and deceits of politics, especially the bribery scandal known as Mensala o, or, for what it was, "the Big Monthly Paycheck Scheme." This historic case of multiple frauds is deeply associated with unscrupulous bankers, President Lula da Silva's party representatives in congress, and his top administration as a whole. The president, however, has always claimed he knew nothing about it. Many people, like Mainardi, were not convinced. So, the author becomes "the archeologist of the Mensala o" (33). He attacks journalists who offer Lula an unquestionable cover-up, and he explicitly seeks and insists to predict Lula's impeachment. The book title itself suggests its leitmotif. Literally it translates as "Lula is my tapir." The Portuguese name for this hoofed, hog-like mammal is a slang term for the nai ve who is taken advantage of by impresarios. With a zigzagging tone between those of a humorous but merciless satire and others of a straightforward denouncement of public culprits, these texts either entertain or irritate readers (perhaps according to their faith in the president). While carrying elements of sarcasm and irony, mockery and malediction, this type journalistic inquiry through the poetically licensed voice of a {cro nica} does not conceal bias or personal animosity. Nonetheless, the rhetorical power of a subjective discourse, for better or for worse, comes to fruition in just about every piece in this volume. Several original {cro nicas} are introduced and/or followed by short remarks adding information to the content or on the consequences of the original publication. One of those end remarks tells that the author was charged with libel (and found innocent) eight times in reaction to the accusations made by one single weekly article (132). Dozens of other lawsuits applied, actually, and Mainardi claims he won them all. By mingling individuals and circumstances of his personal life with the paths and tales of his journalistic discoveries and revelations, this TV commentator, novelist and cinematic script writer undoubtedly knows how to produce {cro nicas} with a bite. Peppery, sour or sweet, it is a distinctive and bold approach to national politics. No library descriptions found. |
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Google Books — Loading... GenresMelvil Decimal System (DDC)869.98Literature Spanish and Portuguese Portuguese Brazilian Portuguese Brazilian authors; Brazilian miscellanyLC ClassificationRatingAverage:
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