The cheeky absurd: philosophical and fantastic intersections in the work of José J. Veiga

Abstract

This article aims to show two conceptions that present some possible points of intersection in the work of the Brazilian writer José J. Veiga. The text will first present one the contemporary perspectives on fantastic literature, based on the writings of Professor David Roas (2011, 2014). Next, through the study of the work of the Algerian writer Albert Camus, specially his book The Myth of Sisyphus (2019), this article will demonstrate some of the main characteristics of the philosophy of the absurd as argued by Camus, and connections pointed out by him and other critics between some fantastic works and Camus’ discussions. From these considerations we will analyze how both conceptions present points of intersection within the work of José J. Veiga, specially in two short stories by the Brazilian writer “O galo impertinente” and “Onde andam os didangos?”, generating a new reading of Veiga’s literature along with a world onthology.