Elisa C. Mariño de Carvajal (Guaranda, March 30, 1894 – June 29, 1977) was an Ecuadorian poet, journalist, and cultural advocate. She authored several poetry collections, including Procelarias, Campanas de Bronce, and Asfodelos, and wrote the lyrics to the Himno de Guaranda. A prominent figure in Ecuadorian literary circles, she founded the Centro de Periodismo and was a member of the Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana. Her work contributed significantly to the cultural life of her hometown and the country, cementing her legacy as a leading intellectual of her time.
Early Life and Education
Elisa C. Mariño de Carvajal was born on March 30, 1894, in Guaranda, Ecuador, a town nestled in the Andean province of Bolívar. Little is recorded about her early education, but her later achievements suggest she was well-educated and deeply involved in the literary and cultural circles of Ecuador.
Literary Career
Elisa C. Mariño de Carvajal made significant contributions to Ecuadorian literature, primarily as a poet. She authored several collections of poetry, including Procelarias, Campanas de Bronce, and Asfodelos. The latter, published in 1976, was a joint work with her daughter Morayma Ofyr Carvajal Mariño, who was also a poet and intellectual. Asfodelos reflects her deep literary talent and her connection to both her family and her homeland.
In addition to her poetry, Elisa wrote the lyrics to the Himno de Guaranda, a patriotic hymn dedicated to her hometown. The hymn, composed in collaboration with musician Evaristo García, is a tribute to the pride and resilience of the people of Guaranda, celebrating its notable figures and cultural legacy.
Contributions to Culture and Journalism
Beyond her literary accomplishments, Elisa was an influential figure in journalism and cultural preservation. She founded the Centro de Periodismo (Center for Journalism) and was an active member of the Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana, specifically in the Núcleo de Bolívar and Chimborazo branches. Her involvement in these cultural institutions underscored her commitment to fostering Ecuadorian arts and culture.
Personal Life
Elisa C. Mariño de Carvajal and Dr. José Leonardo Carvajal Badillo, a lawyer, writer, and journalist, were the parents of Morayma Ofyr Carvajal Mariño, who followed in her mother’s footsteps as a poet. Tragically, Morayma’s life was cut short in 1951 in a highly publicized murder case that shocked Ecuador. Despite this personal tragedy, Elisa remained a respected figure in her community until her death.
Legacy
Elisa C. Mariño de Carvajal passed away on June 29, 1977, leaving behind a rich literary legacy. Her poetry, cultural contributions, and role in Ecuadorian journalism continue to be remembered, especially in her native province of Bolívar. Her work, including the Himno de Guaranda, remains a testament to her devotion to her hometown and her country’s culture. As a poet, journalist, and cultural advocate, Elisa’s legacy is preserved in Ecuadorian history, particularly within the institutions she helped build and nurture.
Recognitions and Accolades
Elisa’s contributions to Ecuadorian literature and culture earned her membership in the prestigious Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana. Her works remain influential, particularly in her home province, where she is celebrated as a leading intellectual and cultural figure.
References
- Biblioteca Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana. “Elisa C. Mariño de Carvajal.” Retrieved on September 25, 2024.
- Biblioteca Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana. Asfodelos: poemas Elisa Mariño de Carvajal y Morayma Ofyr Carvajal Mariño. Retrieved on September 25, 2024.
- Petroglifos Revista Crítica. “Morayma Ofyr, una poeta asesinada.” Retrieved on September 25, 2024.
- Guaranda Municipality. “Himno a Guaranda.” Retrieved on September 25, 2024.