In an interview, Cuban author Leonardo Padura discusses his literary influences, his creative process, and his commitment to promoting Cuban literature.
Leonardo Padura, the Cuban author renowned for his historical novels, emphasizes the importance of the revolutionary period in shaping his literary work. During an interview, Padura, casually dressed and smoking a cigarette before the conversation, reflects on his literary journey from Havana and expresses a passion for his homeland, the historical novel, and his creation of the character Mario Conde. He notes the challenges of the modern publishing landscape, referring to 'the perversity of the market' which impacts how literature is consumed and appreciated today.
Despite being capable of reading in four languages, Padura chooses to engage primarily in Spanish when it comes to literature, believing in the significance of his native tongue while acknowledging the importance of translations. He discusses the labor required to promote his works, highlighting his experiences at events like the FIL Guadalajara 2025. His candid critique of the publishing industry underscores his commitment to ensuring that his stories, rooted in Cuba's rich history, reach a broader audience in a meaningful way.
The conversation touches on literary genres, with Padura contemplating the distinctions between police novels and historical novels, ultimately suggesting that they overlap significantly in narrative style and thematic exploration. He articulates a belief that storytelling is deeply connected to personal and cultural identity, reinforcing his dedication to capturing the realities of Cuba through fiction. As he navigates the complexities of literary genres, Padura remains a pivotal figure in promoting and preserving Cuban literature amidst global challenges.
