Cordel poets are traditional Brazilian storytellers who create and sell illustrated booklets known as cordel literature. This form of poetry often features themes of folklore, history, and social issues, and is typically written in a simple, rhythmic style. The booklets are usually printed on inexpensive paper and hung from strings, which is where the name "cordel" comes from, meaning "string" in Portuguese. These poets often perform their work in public spaces, engaging audiences with their lively recitations. Cordel poetry has deep roots in the northeastern region of Brazil and reflects the rich cultural heritage of the area, blending influences from African, Indigenous, and European traditions.