Antonio Preciado Bedoya is an Afro-Ecuadorian poet, university professor and diplomat. He was born in Esmeraldas on May 21, 1941. He was director of the Municipal Center of Culture of the city of Esmeraldas and President of the Esmeraldas chapter of the House of Ecuadorian Culture. For 23 years he was director of the Department of Culture of the Central Bank of Ecuador and rector of the University of Esmeraldas. He has been dubbed the “Poet of the Diaspora.” Together with Nelson Estupiñán Bass, Preciado is considered one of the greatest exponents of Esmeralda poetry. Siete veces la vida (1967) is widely regarded as his most famous collection of poems. Some of his work has been translated into English, French and Romanian.
Introduction
Antonio Preciado Bedoya, born on May 21, 1941, in Esmeraldas, is an esteemed Afro-Ecuadorian poet, university professor, and diplomat. Throughout his career, he has made significant contributions to the literary and cultural landscape of Ecuador. Known as the “Poet of the Diaspora,” Preciado has gained recognition for his profound poetry, holding a prominent place in the field of Esmeralda poetry alongside Nelson Estupiñán Bass. His works, such as “Siete veces la vida” (1967), have garnered international acclaim and have been translated into multiple languages, including English, French, and Romanian.
Early Life and Education
Preciado grew up in challenging circumstances, facing poverty and adversity from a young age. Despite these obstacles, he completed his primary education and pursued his secondary education at the Colegio 5 de Agosto in Esmeraldas. After graduating, he moved to Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, to attend the Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador. He chose to study in the Faculty of Political and Economic Sciences, earning his bachelor’s degree in the field. Alongside his academic pursuits, Preciado also became actively involved in social and political causes, joining the Communist Party and advocating for a more just society.
Literary Achievements
Antonio Preciado’s poetic talent has propelled him to become one of the most celebrated poets in Ecuador. His works reflect his ideals, struggles, and a deep connection to his Afro-Ecuadorian roots. The rhythmic and evocative nature of his poetry captivates readers, carrying profound messages of love, social consciousness, and the Black experience. Critics and experts have lauded Preciado’s poetry for its vibrancy, imaginative power, and its ability to resonate with readers across cultures.
Notable literary works by Antonio Preciado include “Jolgorio” (1961), “Este hombre y su planeta” (1965), “Más acá de los muertos” (1966), “Siete veces la vida” (1967), “Tal como somos” (1969), “De sol a sol” (1979), “Poema húmedo” (1981), “Espantapájaros” (1982), “De ahora en adelante” (1993), “Jututo” (1996), “De boca en boca” (2005), and “De par en par” (2005). These collections showcase his versatility and his ability to explore diverse themes while maintaining a strong connection to his cultural heritage.
International Recognition and Impact
Antonio Preciado’s talent as a poet has gained international recognition, leading him to participate in literary events across North America, Central America, South America, the Caribbean, Europe, and Africa. His works have been included in national and international anthologies, further solidifying his place as a prominent figure in contemporary literature. A documentary about his life and work, produced by UNESCO, the University of Veracruz, and Ediciones Pentagrama, has been screened in various countries, highlighting his significant contributions to the literary world.
Videos
Antonio Preciado recites a poem
Video of Antonio Preciado
Interview with Antonio Preciado
Interview with Fernando Iturburu
Works
- Jolgorio (Quito, 1961).
- Este hombre y su planeta (1965).
- Más acá de los muertos (Quito, 1966).
- Siete veces la vida (1967).
- Tal como somos (Quito, 1969).
- De sol a sol (Bogotá, 1979).
- Poema húmedo (La Habana, 1981).
- Espantapájaros (La Habana, 1982).
- De ahora en adelante (Quito, 1993).
- Jututo (1996).
- De boca en boca (2005).
- De par en par (2005).
Anthologies
The following are anthologies containing poems by Preciado.
- De sol a sol (Quito, 1992).
- Lírica ecuatoriana contemporánea (Bogotá, 1979).
- Poesía viva del Ecuador (Quito, 1990).
- La palabra perdurable (Quito, 1991).
- Con todos los que soy.(2012).