Nélson Rodrigues: The legacy of ‘O Ex-Covarde’

The legacy of Brazilian playwright and journalist Nélson Rodrigues (1912-1980) is highlighted through his 1968 chronicle, ‘O Ex-Covarde’ (The Ex-Coward). Originally published in O Globo, the text serves as a plea for individual freedom and a stand against authoritarianism.

Rodrigues’ shift from chronicling everyday tragedies to political commentary was driven by the seven-year imprisonment of his son, Nelsinho, for his involvement with the MR-8 armed resistance group. Following this, Rodrigues publicly denounced torture and censorship, famously stating, ‘I do not accept censorship, not even from Jesus Christ.’