E lsa G uimarães de M oura
Canada The narrator – Vabwskah is going to meet a cousin. Her name is Pyntahtyn. She has got two university degrees. She has studied History and Biosphere Engineering. The biosphere is composed by the part of the planet Earth where “life” can be found. Human and not human. It is the part of the Earth where we can find water and air – atmosphere – . – Pyntahtyn – “Marvellous and extraordinary cousin Vabwskah!! How are you my dear? Did you enjoy your journey?” – Vabwskah – “Cousin Pyntahtyn! It is so nice to see you again!! I’m fine thank you! A little bit tired but I’m ok! My journey was wonderful! I have seen so many beautiful landscapes! Unfortunately I am not very familiar with some of the features of the Canadian history and culture…” – Pyntahtyn – “Well…my dear cousin, Hakuna Matata – it means «no worries, no problem» as you would say in South Africa, quoting a Swahili and Zulu expression which is still used nowadays!! And it will always be used!!! As you know, I have studied History. I will tell you something about the culture of Canada. Here, the Native Indians call themselves “The People”. They were Canada’s first inhabitants. They have this name due to Columbus. When Columbus sailed to America in 1492 he thought he had reached the Indies of Asia. It is a funny singularity, isn’t it, cousin?” – Vabwskah – “Yes it is! Go on please! I’m very interested!” – Pyntahtyn – “Well… Canada is a land of «many countries». Much of its population is made up of British people. British descendents. Almost four million are of Scottish or Irish ancestry. Other major groups are German, Italian, Dutch, Greek, Polish, Scandinavian and Portuguese.” – Vabwskah – “Portuguese!! Portugal! I will also visit Portugal!!”
32 . V abwskah