Conclusion

As an economics major who doesn't naturally gravitate towards literature, taking a Hispanic literature class was a new and somewhat daunting experience for me. However, as I reflect on the semester, I can honestly say that it was a surprisingly enjoyable and enriching journey.

One of the things that made this class stand out for me was the grading system and learning style. It made the class less intimidating and more approachable, allowing me to engage with the material in a way that felt meaningful and relevant to my interests. The diverse collection of books we studied was also a highlight. Each novel explored different themes and topics, ranging from relationships to historical and societal dynamics, providing unique insights into Latin American culture and society.

At the beginning of the class, I'll admit I was initially skeptical of some of the unconventional narrative techniques used in the novels. However, as the weeks went by, I began to appreciate the depth and complexity of these narratives. It challenged me to think critically and approach the books from different angles, which ultimately enhanced my understanding and appreciation of the literature.

Although literature may not have be my favourite subject, this class has truly expanded my horizons and pushed me to think critically and engage with the subject in a whole new way. I'm genuinely grateful for the stimulating discussions and diverse perspectives that were brought to the table during the class discussions, as they added so much depth and richness to our exploration of Hispanic literature. This experience has been unique and rewarding, and I know I'll miss the dynamic interactions during class and on these blog posts

Lastly, thank you Jon and Daniel for making this experience so enriching. As someone with a rather low attention span who struggles to focus in class, even if I absolutely love the subject, I almost never had an issue staying engaged in this class (except on the occasional days when my allergies were giving me a tough time lol). Jon, you’re definitely one of the most engaging professors I’ve come across at UBC. And, Daniel, the lecture you facilitated was great - I can see you becoming a great professor one day. Your comments on our blog posts were always thought-provoking and added depth to our discussions. Thank you both for making this class such a memorable experience.

The Taiga Syndrome

Upon reading The Taiga Syndrome, I was immediately captivated by its mysterious and alluring world. Rivera Garza's descriptive prose skillfully brought to life the atmospheric setting of the Taiga, with its dense forests and palpable sense of isolation. As I delved into the story, I realized that the narrator, who remained unnamed throughout, was a figure shrouded in enigma, adding to the novel's sense of intrigue. Her struggles and interactions with other characters left me questioning the true nature of events, blurring the lines between reality and illusion. She was an enigmatic character, with her own struggles and vulnerabilities that she navigated as she journeyed deeper into the taiga. Her interactions with other characters were surreal and puzzling, leaving me pondering the complexities of human nature and the concept of identity. This uncertainty added to the overall sense of mystery and intrigue, and I found myself constantly trying to unravel the intricacies of the narrator's journey.

One of the aspects of the novel that I found particularly intriguing was Rivera Garza's embrace of ambiguity and uncertainty. Rivera Garza left many questions unanswered, inviting readers to interpret the story in their own way. This open-endedness left ample room for speculation and personal reflection, allowing me to engage with the text on a deeper level and form my own conclusions. It prompted me to reflect on the complexities of human nature, the intricacies of our existence, and the subjective nature of reality itself. That said, it was certainly a thought-provoking exploration of selfhood and memory that left me contemplating long after I had finished reading.

What I appreciated most about "The Taiga Syndrome" was its unique blend of genres. It combined elements of mystery, noir, and surrealism in a way that was both captivating and challenging. Rivera Garza's creativity and vision were evident in her experimental approach to storytelling, pushing the boundaries of traditional narratives.

As I reached the end of the novel, I was left with a sense of wonder and intrigue. The Taiga Syndrome had taken me on a literary journey that was unlike any other. It had urged me to reflect on the complexities of the human experience, the fluidity of reality, and the power of literature to transport us to unfamiliar realms and provoke deep introspection. Rivera Garza's evocative prose and thought-provoking exploration of identity had left a profound impact on me, and I found myself contemplating the novel's ideas even after I finished.

Discussion Question: 

How does Rivera Garza’s skillful use of ambiguity and uncertainty add to the mystery and intrigue of the novel? How did it impact your interpretation of the story, including its themes of identity, reality, and human nature?

My Tender Matador by Pedro Lemebel

As I read Pedro Lemebel's My Tender Matador, I found myself drawn in by the beautiful language and the deep humanity of the characters. I was struck by the ways in which Lemebel explores the impact of politics on personal relationships, and the complex interplay between desire, identity, and larger societal forces.

One of the things that stood out to me was the novel's emphasis on the power of connection and solidarity in the face of oppression. Through La Loca's participation in a peaceful protest, Lemebel shows how individual acts of resistance can come together to effect change, even in the most challenging of circumstances. This message of hope and resilience is particularly important in our current political moment, where the forces of division and hatred are on the rise in many parts of the world.

However, I also found the novel to be a deeply introspective exploration of the influence of politics on personal relationships. Lemebel portrays how societal forces can shape our emotions and desires, and how our identities can impact our interactions with others. In some sense, the characters in My Tender Matador are multidimensional, and their inner lives are affected by their experiences of marginalization and oppression. I was particularly moved by the tenderness and beauty of La Loca and Carlos's relationship, and the tragic nature of their circumstances.

What struck me most about Lemebel's writing was his ability to convey the emotional lives of his characters with such vividness and empathy. Through his use of language, he made their struggles and triumphs feel immediate and real. His descriptions of La Loca and Carlos's relationship were especially moving, capturing the tenderness and beauty of their connection in a way that felt both intimate and universal.

As I completed the novel, I was left contemplating how we can challenge oppression and build connections with others in a world that seems increasingly divided and polarized. How can we harness the power of solidarity to effect change, and what is the role of personal relationships in this process? These are pressing questions that My Tender Matador raises, and they feel more pertinent than ever in our current political climate.

Discussion Question: How does Lemebel's use of language and character development convey the impact of politics on personal relationships, and what can we learn from this approach to storytelling about the importance of empathy and understanding in building connections with others?