mais ameno: more temperate

Dictionary of Poetic Terms: Portuguese-English

 

By Author Giljonnys Dias da Silva 

 

The phrase "mais ameno" in Brazilian Portuguese can be translated into English as "more temperate," though this translation depends on the context in which it is used. The word "ameno" itself conveys a sense of moderation, mildness, or pleasantness, often referring to something that is not too extreme. In terms of climate, for instance, "mais ameno" would describe a temperate or mild climate, which is neither too hot nor too cold. However, the translation can also extend to more figurative meanings, such as describing a gentle or calm demeanor, an easygoing attitude, or an atmosphere that is peaceful and moderate.

 

The term "mais ameno" is often used in literature and poetry to convey a sense of serenity, balance, or a softened version of an intense experience, whether it be in nature, emotions, or personal interactions. Let’s explore the translation and its poetic usage through examples in both languages.

 

Poetic Examples in Brazilian Portuguese with English Translations:

 

"O vento sopra mais ameno ao entardecer, trazendo um toque de calma ao meu coração."

"The wind blows more temperate at dusk, bringing a touch of calm to my heart."

 

"O verão se foi, e agora o clima é mais ameno, como se a natureza tivesse encontrado seu equilíbrio."

"Summer has gone, and now the climate is more temperate, as if nature had found its balance."

 

"Após a tempestade, o ar ficou mais ameno, e as árvores começaram a cantar suavemente ao ritmo da brisa."

"After the storm, the air became more temperate, and the trees began to sing softly to the rhythm of the breeze."

 

"O sorriso dela tornou-se mais ameno depois de ouvir minhas palavras de consolo."

"Her smile became more temperate after hearing my words of comfort."

 

"Em dias mais amenos, a cidade parece respirar mais devagar, como se estivesse em sintonia com os corações de seus habitantes."

"On more temperate days, the city seems to breathe more slowly, as if it were in tune with the hearts of its inhabitants."

 

The Use of "Mais Ameno" in Context

 

In the given examples, "mais ameno" acts as a descriptor for a variety of things: the weather, emotional states, and even the tempo of life in a city. The word "temperate" works well in English to capture the sense of something moderate, not extreme, or excessively harsh. It reflects the tranquility, mildness, and balance implied by "mais ameno" in Portuguese.

 

Other ways of saying "mais ameno" in English: more moderate, gentler, less extreme, softer

 

Additionally, "mais ameno" can be seen in the context of emotional and psychological states, often used to describe someone who is less agitated, more serene, or calm. In these cases, the translation of "more temperate" conveys a person’s balanced demeanor, free from extreme reactions.

 

In conclusion, while "mais ameno" can be translated into "more temperate" in many cases, its meaning stretches beyond the literal temperature. Whether describing the environment, emotions, or atmosphere, "mais ameno" carries with it a sense of peace, moderation, and balance. The poetic examples provided demonstrate how this phrase can paint a picture of serenity and calmness, making it a beautiful expression in both Portuguese and English.

 

Bibliographic References 

 

Lennard, J. (2005). The Poetry Handbook. Oxford University Press.

 

This book provides an introduction to the study of poetry, covering terms and concepts commonly used in the analysis of poems. It offers clear explanations of poetic devices, meter, rhyme, and forms of poetry.

 

Preminger, A., Brogan, T. V. F., & McCaffery, L. (Eds.). (2012). The Princeton Encyclopedia of Poetry and Poetics. Princeton University Press.

 

A comprehensive reference work that covers a wide range of poetic terms, forms, styles, and the history of poetics. It’s an essential resource for anyone wanting to explore the lexicon of poetry and poetic theory.

 

Biespiel, D. (2012). The Elements of Poetry. Free Press.

 

This book takes a close look at the fundamental elements of poetry, such as rhythm, diction, and metaphor. It’s a great guide for understanding how poets craft language and meaning.

 

Oliver, M. (1994). A Poetry Handbook. Harcourt Brace.

 

In this book, Mary Oliver explores the technical aspects of poetry, such as line breaks, meter, and sound. It’s both an instruction manual and a reflective guide for writers and readers alike.

 

Baldick, C. (2008). The Oxford Dictionary of Literary Terms (3rd ed.). Oxford University Press.

 

A useful resource for quick reference of literary terms, including a large number of entries related to poetic forms, techniques, and styles. This dictionary covers a broad range of literary terminology in accessible language.

 

Perloff, M., & Dworkin, C. (2009). The Sound of Poetry / The Poetry of Sound. University of Chicago Press.

 

A fascinating exploration of how sound and form interact in poetry. It includes discussion of meter, rhyme, and rhythm as well as avant-garde experiments with sound in modern poetry.

 

Fraser, G. S. (1977). Poetic Forms. Harcourt Brace Jovanovich.

 

A classic book on the different poetic forms, from sonnets to free verse. Fraser discusses the technicalities of verse and the various structures poets can use.

 

Gwynn, R. S. (2015). Poetry: A Pocket Anthology (5th ed.). Pearson.

 

This is a widely used anthology that includes a variety of poetic works along with an introduction to poetic terms and devices. It’s an excellent primer for students new to the study of poetry.

 

Ferguson, M., Galpern, M., & Standish, J. (2005). The Norton Anthology of Poetry (Shorter 5th ed.). W.W. Norton & Company.

 

A highly respected anthology that includes works from classical to modern poets. The anthology features explanations of poetic terms and styles, making it an excellent resource for understanding how these terms are applied in real poems.

 

Perloff, M. (Ed.). (2007). The Cambridge Companion to Modernist Poetry. Cambridge University Press.

 

This book discusses the technical innovations in poetry that came with modernism. It includes analysis of sound, form, and the rejection of traditional poetic rules, providing valuable insights into the evolution of poetic devices.