The author was surprised by the distinction, which she did not expect. The news was given to him by Francisco Pedro Balsemão, son of Francisco Pinto Balsemão, with whom he had a close relationship. Excited, Lídia Jorge initially thought she was talking to Francisco Pinto Balsemão himself.
Lídia Jorge, one of the most prestigious writers in contemporary Portuguese literature, . The author of novels, short stories, essays and poetry, could not hide her surprise when she received the news.
“It was a total surprise. It was an award that was not on my horizon at all”, said Lídia Jorge, revealing the impact of the distinction.
The news was given to her by Francisco Pedro Balsemão, son of the former prime minister and businessman Francisco Pinto Balsemão, a figure close to the writer.
The moment she received the call, Lídia Jorge thought it was Francisco Pinto Balsemão himself who was giving her the good news.
“The news was given to me by Francisco Pedro Balsemão and, at that moment, I thought it was Francisco Pinto Balsemão, because I was very close to him, I had great admiration for him. And, suddenly, it was as if he were alive”, said the writer.
It was only later that Lídia Jorge realized that the person contacting her was her son.
“It was a great emotion when I realized that it wasn’t him, it was his son. Therefore, a new generation,” he said.
