Lima Barreto's work primarily explores social inequality, racism, and political events in Brazil, transforming his personal experiences with prejudice and inner struggles into potent literary themes. His novels offer a critical perspective on society and its political landscape, often featuring characters grappling with their own illusions and societal pressures. Though not fully recognized during his lifetime, his writings now stand as a significant testament to his era and the human condition.
Policarpo Quaresma - fastidious civil servant, dedicated patriot, self-styled visionary - is a defender of all things Brazilian, full of schemes to improve his beloved homeland. Yet somehow each of his ventures, whether it is petitioning for Brazil's national language to be changed, buying a farm to prove the richness and fertility of the land.