photo: Mabel Blanco | Facebook
Text: fede Gayardo
The legacy of the American writer, Ernest Hemingway, was remembered in a very special way this weekend when 18 of his great-looking colleagues toured different locations in Havana.
According to an Associated Press (AP) report, the 18 Americans were “dressed in shorts, high socks, sandals and colorful tropical shirts, wiht a thick white beard framing a round, ruddy face.”
One of the stops on the way was the legendary bar El Floridita, in Old Havana, a space used by Hemingway to drink his daiquiris, a cocktail that earned this bar in the capital the slogan “Birthplace of the daiquiri.”
In addition, the artist’s double visited Finca Vigía, the writer’s residence from mid-1939 to 1960. The visitors then took part in a ball game with local children, a tradition that the writer himself started while he was in Cuba.
One of the participants told AP that “Hemingway started this in 1939 for his son Gregory, who was called Gigi. “He went out around the neighborhood and excited the kids playing baseball with his son and the tradition continued.”
The Americans, who belong to the Hemingway Look-Alike Society, usually give medicines, gifts and toys to the young people of the municipality of San Francisco de Paula, were Finca Vigía is located.
During his stay in Cuba, the double of the author of “For Whom the Bell Tolls” stays at the Ambos Mundos hotel, another of the novelist’s favorite places where the room he used to stay during his stay is kept.
later, the group visited the coastal town of Cojímar, where the writer interacted with fishermen and his yacht Pilar was anchored. The town also preserves the small pier described by the narrator in “The Old Man and the Sea”.
While in Cuba,Hemingway finished “For whom the Bell Tolls” and wrote “Across the River and Among the Trees,” “Islands in the Gulf,” “The Garden of Eden,” “Summer of Blood,” “The Old Man.” and the sea” and “Paris was a party.”
Among his gestures of tribute to cuba, there is the Nobel prize and the gold medal he presented to the Virgin of Charity of Cobre, which was displayed for years in the sanctuary of the town of Cobre until a robbery attempt succeeded in transferring it to the Archbishop of Santiago.
How did Ernest Hemingway’s time in Cuba influence his literary works and style?
Remembering Hemingway: An Interview with Literary Expert Dr. maria Ruiz
Editor (Time.news): Welcome, Dr. Ruiz! It’s great to have you hear to discuss the recent tribute to Ernest Hemingway in Havana. What does this unique celebration signify for the literary world?
dr.Maria Ruiz: Thank you for having me! This tribute is meaningful not just as an homage to Hemingway’s legacy but also as a reminder of the enduring connection between literature and place. Hemingway’s time in Cuba profoundly influenced his work, and this event celebrates that relationship while fostering community and cultural exchange.
Editor: Absolutely. I read that the Hemingway Look-Alike Society organized this event. Can you elaborate on their role in preserving Hemingway’s legacy?
Dr.Ruiz: The Hemingway Look-Alike Society plays a engaging role in keeping memories of the author alive.By dressing like him and touring key locations in Havana, they embody his spirit, introducing his literary contributions to new audiences. their activities,like giving gifts to local children,also enhance cultural exchange between Americans and Cubans,creating a lasting impact within the community of San Francisco de Paula.
Editor: It’s inspiring to see that connection.One of the notable stops was El Floridita, Hemingway’s favorite bar. How do such locations contribute to our understanding of Hemingway as a writer?
Dr. Ruiz: Locations like El Floridita are essential to Hemingway’s narrative. They let us explore the physical spaces that shaped his thoughts and writings. As an example, his fondness for daiquiris symbolizes the vibrant Cuban culture that influenced his literary style. When readers and visitors engage with these places, they not only learn about Hemingway the author but also Hemingway the person.
Editor: The visit to Finca Vigía, his residence, also stands out.What does this locale tell us about his writng process?
Dr. Ruiz: Finca Vigía was more than just a home for Hemingway; it was a sanctuary where he crafted masterpieces like “For Whom the Bell Tolls” and “The Old Man and the Sea.” The house itself, filled with books and artifacts, reveals much about his life and creative process. By understanding the surroundings he wrote in, we gain insights into the themes of solitude, nature, and the human condition found in his work.
Editor: They also held a baseball game with local children, a tradition that Hemingway started with his son. What does this aspect reflect about his values?
Dr. Ruiz: this tradition beautifully illustrates Hemingway’s belief in community and connection. It demonstrates his dedication to the local culture, emphasizing play, joy, and human interaction. By continuing to engage with local children through baseball, the participants honor this aspect of his life—his love for both family and community.
Editor: It seems Hemingway’s influence is still felt strongly in Cuba. How does this cultural homage reflect modern literary movements and global literary tourism?
Dr.Ruiz: This tribute highlights a growing trend in literary tourism, where fans and scholars seek to experience the environments that shaped their favorite authors. Events like this not only celebrate literary figures but also promote tourism and cultural understanding. Hemingway serves as a bridge between America and Cuba, inviting discussions about literature, identity, and the bonds we share across cultures.
Editor: what practical advice would you give to readers and aspiring writers wanting to connect with Hemingway’s legacy?
Dr. Ruiz: I encourage them to explore Hemingway’s works in conjunction with the places he cherished. Visiting locations that inspired him can ignite creativity and offer new perspectives on his stories. Additionally, immersing oneself in the culture and history of these places enhances the reading experience.Lastly, don’t forget to appreciate the themes of resilience, humanity, and adventure, which are central to Hemingway’s writing and applicable to our lives today.
Editor: Thank you for your insights, Dr.Ruiz! Your expertise perfectly illuminates the continuing relevance of Hemingway in both literature and culture.
Dr. Maria Ruiz: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure discussing Hemingway’s enduring legacy with you.