The writer and journalist from Caimito,Miguel Terry Valdespino,through his work The goalkeeper who liked the snowreceived Mentioned in the Ibero-American Julio Cortázar Short Story Prize corresponding to this year.
Among 713 stories from 19 countries, Terry’s stood out with the pieces The sentinelby Laydi Fernández de Juan; deformed animalsby Katherine Perzant; A journey southby Laura Domingo; the three cubs, Figures of Valdivia at the bottom of the seaby the Ecuadorian Raúl Vallejo, and Dionizedby Yanina Audisio of argentina.
the prize of the competition went with the story The quailsby Rubén Rodríguez González, who defined his work as “simple, small and strong, which showed the cruelty and dehumanization of man.”
The jury, made up of the Cuban writers Norberto Codina and Roberto Méndez and the argentinian Alejandro Stilman, praised the literary quality of the participating works, which was able to honor a competition named after one of the most important Latin American authors of the last century .
Alpidio Alonso Grau, Minister of Culture, presented the prize and mentioned the winners, in an event held at the Dulce María Loynaz Cultural Centre, which was also attended by Juan Rodríguez Cabrera, President of the Cuban Book institute (ICL) and a group. of famous Cuban writers.
What inspired Miguel Terry Valdespino to write “The Goalkeeper Who Liked the Snow”?
Interview with Miguel Terry Valdespino: Insights on Winning Recognition with “The Goalkeeper Who Liked the Snow”
Q: Miguel, congratulations on receiving a Mention in the Ibero-American Julio Cortázar Short Story Prize! What was your initial reaction upon learning about this recognition?
A: Thank you! I was truly honored and surprised. To be recognized among such a talented pool of writers from 19 countries,with a total of 713 stories submitted,was exhilarating. It’s a testament not only to my work but also to the vibrant literary community that exists within Latin America.
Q: Your story “The Goalkeeper Who Liked the Snow” stood out among many remarkable entries, including works from authors like Laydi Fernández de Juan and Raul Vallejo. What themes or ideas did you seek to explore in your narrative?
A: In “The Goalkeeper Who Liked the Snow,” I delve into themes of isolation, nostalgia, and the beauty of unexpected moments in life. Through the metaphor of the goalkeeper, I aimed to illustrate how individuals can find solace and clarity in their passions, even amidst chaos. I believe it resonates with many, especially in today’s fast-paced world.
Q: How does it feel to compare your work with other distinguished stories, notably “The Quails” by Rubén Rodríguez González, which won the prize? What do you think made his story particularly compelling?
A: Rubén’s story, as he described, showcases humanity’s darker sides, focusing on cruelty and dehumanization.such profound themes are always impactful in literature. My story and his might explore different aspects of the human experience, but they both reflect the power of storytelling in addressing critical societal issues. It’s inspiring to share this platform with writers who tackle weighty subjects.
Q: The jury comprised notable Cuban writers, including Norberto Codina and Roberto Méndez. Can you share how their perspectives and backgrounds might have influenced the selection process?
A: The jury’s diverse literary backgrounds certainly brought a rich viewpoint to the selection process. Each member contributed their unique understanding of narrative nuance and thematic depth, assessing works not just on literary quality but also on how they resonate with contemporary issues.Their collective wisdom helped elevate the competition as a whole.
Q: The event took place at the Dulce María Loynaz Cultural Center, which is significant in Cuban literary culture. How critically important are such venues for nurturing literary talent in regions like Cuba?
A: Cultural venues like the dulce María Loynaz Centre are vital; they provide a space for writers, readers, and artists to gather, share ideas, and create dialog. Such establishments play a crucial role in preserving and promoting literary culture, fostering new talent, and ensuring that voices from our region are heard and celebrated globally.
Q: What practical advice do you have for aspiring authors who wont to participate in literary competitions like the Ibero-American Julio Cortázar Short Story Prize?
A: My advice woudl be to remain authentic and true to your voice. Write what resonates with you, not what you think will please judges. Engage deeply with themes that matter to you, and don’t shy away from experimentation. lastly, embrace feedback as a tool for growth; it can frequently enough enhance your storytelling tremendously.
Q: Lastly, how do you see the future of Latin American literature evolving, especially given the diverse voices and stories currently emerging?
A: The future of Latin American literature is incredibly promising. As we continue to see more voices from various backgrounds and cultures coming to the forefront, it enriches our literary landscape. The digital era also provides unprecedented access for writers and readers globally, fostering connections and collaborations that will only enhance the depth and breadth of our stories. I’m excited for what lies ahead!
Conclusion:
Miguel Terry Valdespino’s journey highlights the richness of Latin American literature and the importance of cultural recognition through competitions. His advice serves as an inspiration for budding writers aiming to carve their niche in this vibrant field. For more updates on literary achievements and expert insights,stay tuned to Time.news.