VELVET FORMS OF CENSORSHIP

Abstract

Recently in Brazil, the literary work of Jefferson Tenório, O avesso da pele (2020), was removed from schools in Paraná, Mato Grosso do Sul, and Goiás. This occurred in 2024, with the claim that the book was harmful to students under 18 due to inappropriate language. Reflecting on this event, the objective of this article is precisely to examine how censorship of literary works occurs in the country. Methodologically, some specific works will be analyzed, such as O avesso da pele, as well as others that have been targeted for language that conflicts with ethical issues raised by groups fighting against racism, female exploitation, gender issues, among others, such as the literary objects from the past, like the works of Monteiro Lobato. All these issues are addressed by authors who have studied them, such as Foucault (2009), who examines power relations and social control in society, including forms of censorship and repression. Despite the end of the dictatorial period in Brazil, during which many works and performances were censored, the result is that centers of power continue to insist on determining what can or cannot be read in schools, mainly. These are issues that require reflective thinking from publishers, authors, and readers.