April 2024 - Page 2 of 3 - Ecuadorian Literature

Sick Motherland by Fanny Caicedo

Translated to English by Richard Gabela on April 10, 2024, from the original work “Patria Enferma” by Fanny Caicedo (1932–2001) of Yaguachi, Ecuador. I have translated the title of the poem as “Sick Motherland.”

The Moon and the Boy by Diógenes Cuero Caicedo

Translated to English by Richard Gabela on April 10, 2024, from the original work “La Luna y el Niño” by Diógenes Cuero Caicedo (1948–2019) of Esmeraldas, Ecuador. I have translated the title of the poem as “The Moon and the Boy.”

Kiss Me by Mary Corylé

Translated to English by Richard Gabela on April 9, 2024, from the original work “Bésame” (1925) by Mary Corylé (1894-1976) of Cuenca, Ecuador. I have translated the title of the poem as “Kiss Me.”

Dead Minute by Gerardo Chiriboga

Translated to English by Richard Gabela on April 5, 2024, from the original work “Minuto muerto” by Gerardo Chiriboga (1895-1966) of Riobamba, Ecuador. I have translated the title of the poem as “Dead Minute.”

Spiritual Colloquy by Jorge Ismael Gandú

Translated to English by Richard Gabela on April 5, 2024, from the original work “Coloquio Espiritual” by Jorge Ismael Gandú (1904-Unknown) of Guayaquil, Ecuador. I have translated the title of the poem as “Spiritual Colloquy.”

Jorge Ismael Gandú

Jorge Ismael Gandú, pseudonym of José Miguel Granda Granda (Celica, Loja Province of Ecuador, 1904 – Medellin, Colombia, Unknown) was an Ecuadorian poet and songwriter, renowned primarily for his significant contributions to the pasillo genre, a type of Latin American music. While his literary endeavors culminated in the publication of the poetry collection “Hontanar” in 1937, a work dedicated to his mother, wife, and homeland, it was his role as a lyricist for numerous pasillo songs that truly cemented his fame. Gandú’s ability to weave emotional depth into his lyrics resonated with composers and audiences alike, leading to collaborations with notable musicians such as Nicasio Safadi, who set Gandú’s poem “De corazón a corazón” to music.

Gerardo Chiriboga

Gerardo Chiriboga (Riobamba, 1895 – Quito, 1966) was an Ecuadorian genealogist, journalist, and poet, known for his diverse contributions to the literary and historical fields. Among his literary works, “Minuto muerto, poemas” (1934) stands out as a compelling collection of poems. Additionally, he authored “Galápagos: El hombre, la tierra y el paisaje” (1948), a comprehensive exploration of the Galápagos Islands. This work is part of a significant body of literature that emerged post-World War II about the archipelago, following the departure of the American base. His literary efforts, including his recognized contributions to poetry in the anthology “Antología de poetas Riobambeños” (Anthology of Poets from Riobamba) (1963), further cement his place in Ecuador’s literary history.

Dance of the Leaves by Gerardo Chiriboga

Translated into English by Richard Gabela on April 5, 2024, from the original work “Danza de las Hojas” by Gerardo Chiriboga (1895-1966) of Riobamba, Ecuador. I have translated the title of the poem as “Dance of the Leaves.”

Little Girl from My Neighborhood by Inés Márquez Moreno

Translated to English by Richard Gabela on April 9, 2024, from the original work “Muchachita de mi Barrio” by Inés Márquez Moreno (1914–2017) of Cuenca, Ecuador. I have translated the title of the poem as “Little Girl from My Neighborhood.”

Cristóbal Cevallos Larrea

Cristóbal Cevallos Larrea (1902-1978), holding a Doctorate in Law, was a multifaceted Ecuadorian intellectual, poet, writer, journalist, teacher, and jurist who had a significant influence on Ecuador’s cultural landscape. Cristóbal Cevallos Larrea demonstrated his dedication to cultural enrichment by leading the Chimborazo branch of the Casa de la Cultura in Riobamba, serving as a founding member in 1953 and later as its president in 1964, as well as heading the Ateneo del Chimborazo. In legal and educational spheres, Larrea held the positions of Minister and President of the National Court of Justice and taught Constitutional and Political Law and Civic Studies at the Colegio Nacional Maldonado in Riobamba for many years. Among his literary works, “La Gesta Amazónica” is renowned as an epic poem dedicated to the Amazon.

Gustavo Vallejo Larrea

Gustavo Vallejo Larrea (Riobamba, 1905 – Quito, 1961), a journalist, poet, legislator, and advocate for education, founded the “Campaña Nacional de Alfabetización” (National Literacy Campaign) in 1948. As president of the National Union of Journalists (UNP), he led this movement, significantly reducing illiteracy rates across Ecuador for 17 years. His dedication, fueled by the belief in education’s pivotal role in national development, propelled the campaign to isolated areas, urban suburbs, and even prisons. Additionally, Vallejo played a significant role in shaping the 1945 Ecuadorian Constitution, contributing to its clarity and the articulation of progressive principles. Vallejo’s legacy continues, with a school in Quito named in his honor and a bust in Riobamba.

Juan Félix Proaño Castillo

Dr. Juan Félix Proaño Castillo (Riobamba, July 20, 1850 – Quito, July 30, 1938) was an Ecuadorian priest, theologian, writer, educator, and political figure, whose extensive contributions spanned the late 19th and early 20th centuries, significantly shaping Ecuador’s cultural and religious landscape. Celebrated for founding “El Templo del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús” in 1892, a newspaper that integrated religious teachings with cultural and literary discourse, Proaño stood firm against the liberal reforms of his era. This conviction led to his exile, during which he persisted in his scholarly and pastoral work. His historical drama “Quisquís” is particularly notable for its portrayal of Incaic civilization, underscoring his commitment to chronicling and preserving Ecuador’s rich historical and cultural heritage.

Carlos Arturo León Romero

Carlos Arturo León Romero (June 25, 1886, Riobamba – December 19, 1968, Quito) was an Ecuadorian lyricist, poet, playwright, and distinguished lawyer. Born into a family with a rich legal heritage, he carved a niche for himself not just in the courts but also on the cultural stage of Ecuador. His works spanned across various genres including drama, poetry, and novels, showcasing his versatility and deep engagement with the socio-political themes of his time. León Romero’s contribution to Ecuadorian literature and theater is profound, with plays such as “Reparación,” “El Recluta,” and “La Huérfana” earning critical acclaim and popular success. His establishment of the Teatro Daniel León further cemented his legacy as a patron of the arts, providing a platform for the performing arts in Ecuador.

Ambrosio Larrea

Ambrosio Larrea, also known as Father Ambrosio Nicolás Larrea y León (born in Riobamba, Ecuador, on December 7, 1742, and died in Faenza, Italy, on September 19, 1796), was a Jesuit priest, poet, and intellectual whose influence extends beyond religious realms into literature and progressive thought. Celebrated for his poetry, Larrea found his voice during his exile and was recognized after his death for his contributions to the neoclassical and Parnassian movements. His work, mainly created while displaced, showcases a deep engagement with Enlightenment ideals and a strong sense of American identity. His poetic oeuvre includes poignant tributes, such as those dedicated to the sepulcher of Clavijero, reflecting his keen insight and stylistic elegance. Though his body of work is not extensive, Larrea’s writings are cherished for their expressive depth and refinement.

Dry Leaves by Honorato Vázquez Ochoa

Translated to English by Richard Gabela on April 2, 2024, from the original work “Hojas secas” by Honorato Vázquez Ochoa (1855-1933) of Cuenca, Ecuador. I have translated the title of the poem as “Dry Leaves.”