Renowned Brazilian poet António Carlos Cortez has expressed concerns over the state of contemporary poetry, lamenting a lack of quality and limited readership. Cortez identifies Luís Vaz de Camões as Portugal’s – and potentially Brazil’s – most insightful poet. He also cautioned against the rise of populism, drawing parallels to Trumpism, and its potential impact on cultural values. Cortez specifically criticised the “festivalization” of culture, suggesting it prioritises spectacle over substance. He emphasized the crucial role of humanism and literature in education, warning of the consequences of their absence. Cortez advocates for a renewed focus on fostering critical thinking and a deeper appreciation for literary tradition.