Well, after a long hiatus, it’s time to go back to Portugal. Unfortunately, this particular trip involves work. It’s the occasion of the annual Disquiet International Literary Program, which requires one to behave, be productive, and be sober. At least through the morning hours. I’ve never been to one of these writers’ retreats before. I’m thrilled to have been invited and hope I don’t disappoint.
“Run by a group of North American writers with ties to Portugal, the program aims to deepen mutual understanding among writers from North America and writers from Portugal. The program takes its inspiration from The Book of Disquiet, the great Lisbon poet Fernando Pessoa’s masterpiece; from the city of Lisbon itself; and from the late Portuguese poetAlberto de Lacerda, who believed above all in the importance of literary community.”