Santarenaida: poema eroi-comico

A spirited, tongue‑in‑cheek epic opens with the sudden death of a legendary Coimbra tavern‑keeper, Joze Rodrigues Santareno, who collapses after a long, thirsty journey to the Easter celebration at Santo Antonio dos Olivais. The narrator calls upon the muse and, in a boldly flamboyant voice, frames the ordinary scene as a heroic saga, weaving in vivid references to Mars, Bacchus, Neptune and the classical courts of the gods. The opening verses blend lofty, rhythmic language with the earthy humor of a local inn, setting a lively stage where mythic grandeur meets everyday Portuguese life.

The poem’s tone is both celebratory and satirical, as the speaker debates the rights of water versus wine, poking fun at royal authority and divine meddling. Listeners will be drawn into the fast‑moving, musical cadence of the verses, where lofty rhetoric collides with rib‑tickling commentary on power, pride, and the simple pleasures of a well‑served drink. The first act promises a colorful clash of personalities and ideas, delivered with wit and a melodic rhythm that makes the story feel like a festive toast.