As “Topics in Hispanic Literature” comes to an end, I’m surprised to find myself quite emotional. It feels great to complete the course and come one step closer to graduating, but this course has had a profound impact on me and I’ll truly be sad to see it go. Throughout the semester, we delved into a diverse and captivating selection of texts, exploring themes such as death, temporality, colonialism, violence, gender, dreams, childhood, nature, and translation. My favorite aspect of the course by far was the prominent presence of female authors in the syllabus, and the unique perspectives they brought to my understanding of the “Latin American experience.” I tried to be intentional in my “chosen adventure” to prioritize the texts written by women and I feel so grateful for that decision. It was incredible to experience culture, injustice, and freedom through their eyes.
Mama Blanca’s Memoirs by Teresa de la Parra, Madwomen by Gabriela Mistral, The Hour of the Star by Clarice Lispector, I, Rigoberta Menchú by Rigoberta Menchú, and Papi by Rita Indiana are just some of these powerful works that will stay with me for a very long time to come. These authors inspired me to deeply reflect on the complexities of identity, the quest for self-expression, and the unapologetic hope for freedom. These texts left a deep impression on me and I hope to re-read them soon in the near future.
The course also introduced me to masterpieces of Latin American literature such as Cartucho by Nellie Campobello, Labyrinths by Jorge Luis Borges, Pedro Páramo by Juan Rulfo, and One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez. These texts captivated me with their rich imagery, intricate narratives, and thought-provoking explorations of the human condition. I have been curious about these books for years and I’m so grateful this course allowed me to explore them in such a personal and meaningful way.
Ending the term with Fever Dream by Samanta Schweblin was an incredible crescendo. It really stood out with its surreal and haunting narrative, blurring the boundaries between reality and fever. Its connections to real environmental and social devastation in Argentina left me extremely contemplative and grateful that such beautiful and haunting art can come out of such injustice.
Overall, this course has truly been a revelation, providing me with a fresh and diverse perspective on Latin American literature. As both a Latina and a STEM major who has had very little academic contact with literature, I’m so grateful for the reprieve and affirmation this class has offered me. It’s been nothing short of amazing to get the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities, nuances, and beauty of Latin American culture, history, and society. This class has been one of my favorites of university, and it has left an indelible mark on my literary and cultural sensibilities. I can’t think of a better way to finish off my time at UBC.
Huge thank-yous to Jon and Daniel for crafting such an engaging and delightful class, and also to my classmates for always providing such fun and thought-provoking discussions. You will be missed!