Amid Cuba's daily hardships like blackouts, lingering garbage from Hurricane Melissa, and circulating viruses, writer Carlos Esquivel Guerra from Las Tunas has won the Franz Kafka Novel Prize for his work 'I Am Leopoldo Ávila'. This news brings joy and pride in a context of ongoing challenges. Author Lien Estrada celebrates the achievement despite her own illness.
Cuba faces multiple issues complicating daily life. Since October 29, garbage left by Hurricane Melissa remains piled up on streets, with no municipal services intervening despite Christmas approaching. Blackouts continue, with official statements explaining they won't resolve soon. Food prices are high, while wages and pensions last only a few days a month, fostering fear rather than gratitude.
Additionally, at least six viruses, possibly more, circulate relentlessly. Friends report symptoms that weaken the body, turning greetings into questions about how the illness has affected them. Hospital conditions are deplorable, deterring people from seeking medical care.
In this painful scenario, uplifting news emerges: poet and novelist Carlos Esquivel Guerra from Las Tunas has won the Franz Kafka Novel Prize for 'I Am Leopoldo Ávila'. Estrada, suffering from what she believes is chikungunya for 21 days—with pains in arms, hands, and mobility issues—expresses pride in this achievement. 'Obviously, even amid all the terrible conditions we live under, this news cannot help but make me happy,' she writes. Though her health prevents travel for an interview, she views this recognition as a reason to celebrate and an encouragement that, despite the chaos, Cuban talent can shine and gain international acclaim.
This prize highlights cultural resilience in tough times, reminding that the Cuban people deserve such moments of hope.
