Many Celebrate the Life and Work of the Beloved Central American Poet, Claribel Alegría

!!!

–Written by Kimberly Mentzer–

The Nicaraguan-Salvadoran writer, Claribel Alegría, died in January at the age of 93. She died happy, surrounded by her children, and unafraid of death, knowing that she had lived a fulfilling life. Among the many recognitions she received for her writing, she was the first Central American woman to win the Ibero-American Reina Sofia Award for Poetry. Alegría’s writing and poetry reflected key moments in her countries’ histories concerning dictatorships, wars, and social injustices and expressed her love and commitment to society. Many lamented her loss and celebrated the contributions she made to Central American culture, art, and literature. Academic and international organizations, intellectuals, other Central American and Spanish writers sent their condolences. An interview from after she won the Reina Sofia Award (2017) reveals the figures who influenced her career and the connections she made with other famous writers throughout her life.

To read the full content subscribe today!