José Alvaro Afonso was born in Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira, Açores.  He has a law degree from the University of Coimbra.  His poetry has been published in the literary supplement Vento Norte—Northern Wind.  A poet of the younger generation, he has published one book of poetry.  He lives in Angra do Heroísmo. 

To say few words and look at you

As one opens one’s eyes after a nap

Your hands tasting like strawberries

Hugging you as one who from within

Flees from the closeness of hope

Touching you because you are within yourself

Another taste

And at your door there are invitations and wariness

Dazzle that I don’t want to refuse

Dizer poucas palavras e olhar-te

Como se abrem os olhos depois da sesta

Saberem a morangos as tuas mãos

Abraçar-te como quem de si mesmo

Foge ao rés da esperança

Tocar-te porque és em ti outro sabor

E à tua porta há convites e recatos

Fulgores que não quero recusar