“I use metaphorical language, and I am interested in mixing fantasy with reality,” he said.

“Fantasy is a part of life, and Utopia used to be a part of politics, but it disappeared years ago. I want to mobilise people’s imagination because it’s through imagination that we create solutions that lead to happiness. These days, there’s a lot of rubbish.

“If people want to bet on the absurd, at least they should bet on the absurdity and surrealism of their dreams and desires. That’s one of the most honest things out there.”

Manuel João Vieira, Guardian, 16/01/2026