First, let's clear something up. The title calls it a 'poem of national customs,' which sounds pretty formal. But don't let that fool you. This isn't one long, stuffy epic. Think of it more as a series of snapshots, or little plays, written in verse. Each 'scene' shows us a different slice of life on the roça (the farm or countryside) in 19th-century Brazil.

The Story

There isn't a single continuous plot. Instead, Corrêa acts like a friendly guide with a good sense of humor, walking us through the daily routines and special events of rural communities. We see young men trying (and often failing) to impress the local girls at a party. We overhear neighbors exchanging the latest gossip, blowing small misunderstandings into huge dramas. We witness the hard work of harvest time, the superstitious beliefs about the weather, and the simple joys of a shared meal. The 'story' is the collective life of the community itself, with all its small triumphs, embarrassments, and enduring traditions.

Why You Should Read It

I loved this book because it feels honest. Corrêa isn't just painting a pretty picture of pastoral peace; he's showing us real people. His characters are gossipy, proud, stubborn, kind, and funny—often all at once. Reading it, you get the sense that not much has changed about human nature, even if the setting is from another century. The charm is in the details: the description of someone's overly fancy outfit for a simple gathering, or the universal panic of realizing you've said the wrong thing. It’s a celebration of ordinary life, but it never gets sentimental. It winks at the flaws while clearly having affection for the whole world it describes.

Final Verdict

This is a perfect pick for anyone curious about the soul of historical Brazil beyond dates and battles. If you enjoy character-driven stories, slice-of-life observations, or social history that feels alive, you'll find a lot to love here. It's also a great, accessible entry point into classic Brazilian literature. Fair warning: it's not a page-turning thriller. It's a slow, observational stroll through a lost world. Pour a cup of coffee, settle in, and let Corrêa introduce you to his neighbors. You might just recognize a few of them.