In 1961, Vinicius de Moraes chose artistic creation over diplomacy.

• A letter signed by Vinicius de Moraes to his first daughter, Susana de Moraes.
• Two pages.
• In Portuguese.
• 20 cm x 26 cm.
• Petrópolis, April 4, 1961.
• Good condition, paper slightly creased.
• Unique piece.

In 1961, Vinicius de Moraes was experiencing a period of intense artistic production and personal transformation. At 48, already established as a poet and diplomat, he was increasingly immersed in the world of Brazilian popular music, drawing closer to artists like Tom Jobim, with whom he had released the iconic "Chega de Saudade" three years earlier. During this period, he progressively distanced himself from his diplomatic career—which he would officially abandon in 1968—and reaped the first fruits of Bossa Nova, a movement of which he was one of the great lyricists. On a personal level, 1961 marked the beginning of his relationship with Nelita Abreu Rocha, whom he would marry in 1962. Thus, this year represented a transitional stage, in which Vinicius established himself as a central figure in Brazilian culture, balancing the lyricism of his poetry with the lightness and sophistication of popular music.

In this letter to his daughter, in an intimate and affectionate tone, he shares professional news, such as the "literary frenzy" he was experiencing, mentioning plays like "Looking for a Rose ," "Massacre in Barros," and the daring " The Last Supper ," which he himself predicts will result in his excommunication for reinterpreting Christianity from a Marxist perspective.

There are amusing passages, such as when he says he's "a damn good Turk at business," celebrating the profits from his publishing house, or when he talks about the new "Brazilian-style snooker" and the small swimming pool of his future house designed by Oscar Niemeyer. He naturally mentions names like Tom Jobim and even the Beatles. The letter mixes erudition, irony, and paternal affection, offering a charming portrait of Vinicius in his full artistic and emotional maturity.

“I presented myself to Itamaraty soon after the change of government, but they decided to forget about me – which is very honorable for me, but all the more convenient, since I am in the midst of a literary frenzy.”

This passage is perhaps the most revealing: it shows that, although formally still linked to Itamaraty (the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs), Vinicius was already, in practice, removed from his diplomatic duties. The "change of government" he refers to is probably the inauguration of Jânio Quadros in January 1961. Vinicius interprets with irony and relief the fact that he was not called upon again: he feels "honored" to be forgotten and, at the same time, grateful, as this allows him to dedicate himself intensely to artistic creation!

Thus, this important letter — signed in handwriting as “Dad” — reveals the moment of transition and distancing from diplomacy in the life of the genius Vinicius de Moraes, marked by creative freedom and a clear priority given to literature, music, and theater.