Constantino Bértolo, editor: 'Today the dominant poetics in literature is marketing'
Constantino Bértolo, a prominent Spanish editor, reflects on the current state of literature, emphasizing that marketing has taken precedence over traditional poetic values.
Constantino Bértolo, a significant figure in Spanish publishing known for leading important editorial projects like Debate and founding the Caballo de Troya imprint, discusses his experiences and insights in the literary world. His new essay, 'El arte de rechazar manuscritos', explores the complicated role of the editor, including the difficult task of rejecting manuscripts and the impact of marketing on literature. Bértolo highlights how the publishing industry has evolved with an increasing focus on marketability rather than artistic expression.
In his statement about editors being 'desalmados' and writers suffering from a 'saturation of the self', Bértolo critiques the contemporary literary scene where personal narratives and branding overshadow traditional literary values. He suggests that this shift has led to a dominance of market-driven decisions in publishing, fostering an environment that prioritizes financial success over artistic merit. Bértolo's reflections reveal his concern for the future of literature and the challenges faced by both editors and writers in navigating these changes.
His advocacy for discovering new literary talent continues through his work, as he aims to carve pathways for diverse voices in literature while maintaining his integrity regarding what deserves to be published. Bértolo's contributions to the literary landscape, along with his candid insights, encourage a deeper discussion about the balance between marketing and creativity in contemporary writing.