Livraria Lello celebrates the poetic creation and artistic influences of who was – and is – the most universal contemporary Portuguese poet and one of the most important voices in the Portuguese language: Fernando Pessoa (1888-1935).
In these nine books belonging to the private collection of Livraria Lello, we make known the multifaceted poet and his influences, through three types of books: the first, corresponding to the only book in the Portuguese language – Mensagem (1934) – and opuscules published by the author in life; the second, referring to titles released posthumously, such as the renowned Livro do Desassossego (1982); and the third, consisting of a book given to his sister and others from Fernando Pessoa's private library.
This group includes the entire poet, from the key figure of modernism to the master of creating more than 127 heteronyms – among which, the best known Álvaro de Campos, Alberto Caeiro, Ricardo Reis and Bernardo Soares – whose vast lyric without time or validity deserves to be remembered always.
Called "Autopsychography", this exhibition installation is an invitation to reflect on self-expression, the search for meaning and the constant evolution of identity in Fernando Pessoa's unique work.

Message (1934), Fernando Pessoa

Mensagem is the only book in Portuguese published during his lifetime by Fernando Pessoa. The epic-lyric poem is composed of 44 poems, divided into three parts that tell the evolution of the Portuguese empire: Coat of Arms, Portuguese Sea and O Encoberto. The book was called by the poet a “small book of poems”.

35 Sonnets (1918), Fernando Pessoa

35 Sonetos is a self-published book by Fernando Pessoa in English. It expresses the poet's ability to express complex and deep emotions in a classical poetic way. Each sonnet is a window into the author's soul, exploring themes such as love, loneliness and the search for the meaning of existence.

Freemasonry (1935), Fernando Pessoa

In this booklet, Fernando Pessoa delves into the philosophy and mysteries of Freemasonry. With an analytical and reflective approach, the author explores the ideas and principles of this secret society, providing a unique insight into its influences on society and human life.

Book of Disquiet (1982), Bernardo Soares

Published under the heteronym Bernardo Soares, Fernando Pessoa presents the Book of Disquiet, a fragmented work, with a deep and complex impetus. It is written in the form of a bookkeeper's assistant's diary, bringing together autobiography, introspective texts, reflections and some descriptions. The work also captures the restlessness, boredom and anguish of the human condition.

Love Letters (1978), Fernando Pessoa

This collection of letters are the result of the loving correspondence between Fernando Pessoa and Ophélia Queiroz, which took place between 1920 and 1930, and reveal a more intimate and private side of the poet. The delicately chosen words convey the nuances of human emotions, offering a unique vision of love, through Pessoa's unique perspective.

Poetry (1952), Fernando Pessoa

This comprehensive anthology highlights the diversity and poetic genius of Fernando Pessoa. From heteronyms to Pessoa's orthonym poetry, the book captures the richness of styles and themes explored by the author, providing a complete experience of Pessoa's vast contribution to Portuguese poetry.

The Encyclopedia of Wit. (1804), W. Lewis for R. Phillips

Perhaps this little encyclopedia of jokes and humor could be a good illustration of a more unknown and personal Pessoa. He was very playful and loved to play pranks. A characteristic that he did not lose throughout his life. The book, belonging to Fernando Pessoa's private library, bears a dedication to Álvaro de Campos from his friend Alberto (Caeiro).

Peeps of Many Lands (1909), Agnes M. Goodall

Fernando Pessoa liked to give books to his closest family members. This book, signed by the Portuguese writer for his sister Teca, on November 27, 1910, is an example of this habit. In 1910 the family was still separated, with Pessoa living alone in Lisbon. His mother and brothers returned from South Africa in 1920.

Music (1898), José Régio and «Júlio»

Work by José Régio, with drawings by «Júlio», the author’s brother and one of the main illustrators of the Presença movement. The drawings are accompanied by prose texts by José Régio. The copy on display has an autographed dedication, addressed to the poet Fernando Pessoa.


*Autopsychography is a psychological description that a person makes of themselves

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