Feb 24 • 18:32 UTC 🇦🇷 Argentina La Nacion (ES)

Diana Bellessi: "In Argentina, there are great old poets and great poor poets"

Diana Bellessi celebrates her 80th birthday with the release of three new books, reflecting on her literary journey in Argentina.

Diana Bellessi, a celebrated Argentine poet who recently turned 80, is embracing her milestone birthday with the release of three significant literary works. These include an expanded edition of her collection 'Tener lo que se tiene', a new poetry book titled 'La curva del tiempo', and a bilingual edition of 'Las gemelas, el sueño', co-published with her friend Ursula K. Le Guin. Each of these works showcases Bellessi's unique voice and perspective on themes of aging, wealth, and the literary landscape of her home country.

The release of these books has sparked a dialogue about the evolution of poetry in Argentina, particularly focusing on the contributions of older and less recognized poets. Bellessi's comments on the state of poetry reflect a deep understanding of the cultural and economic challenges facing artists in Argentina, and she emphasizes the importance of recognizing the rich tapestry of voices that contribute to the nation's literary heritage. Her relationship with Le Guin underlines a transcontinental literary friendship that enriches both their works and promotes cross-cultural understanding.

As Bellessi engages with her readers about her past and the 'dolce far niente' of her experiences, the celebration of her contributions is not just a personal milestone but also a reflection on the broader poetic community in Argentina. This conversation reminds audiences of the need to support and uplift diverse voices in literature, ensuring that both the 'old' and 'poor' poets receive the recognition they deserve in a country known for its vibrant literary tradition.

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