Kalandraka Publishing Withdraws from Orihuela Children’s Poetry Award

Kalandraka Publishing, a well-known name in the literary world, has officially announced its disassociation from the International City of Orihuela Poetry Award for Children. This decision follows the Orihuela municipal government’s refusal to support the Hernández family’s plea to annul the death sentences that condemned the revered poet, Miguel Hernández, to death.

The Unraveling Ties with Orihuela

After a city council meeting held on September 26, Kalandraka expressed that the current conditions do not permit them to continue their collaboration with the Orihuela municipality. The publishing house has stated their commitment to honoring the legacy of Miguel Hernández, emphasizing the need for respect towards his profound contributions to poetry and literature.

Reasons for the Decision

• Rejection of Family’s Appeal: The municipal government’s denial to annul the judgments against Hernández has been a key factor.
• Commitment to Historical Context: Kalandraka argues that separating Hernández’s work from its historical and political context is a betrayal of his memory.

Understanding Miguel Hernández’s Legacy

Hernández’s literary contributions are critical to understanding the struggles faced by the weak and marginalized during his era. Notable works like Viento del pueblo (1936-1937), El hombre acecha (1937-1939), and Cancionero y romancero de ausencias (1938-1941) reflect his commitment to the Republican cause and the defense of the vulnerable through the power of words and poetry. Kalandraka underscores that disconnecting his works from the historical realities of his life distorts their essence.

Conclusion

Kalandraka’s decision marks a significant moment in the ongoing dialogue about the importance of literary legacy and historical context. As community members reflect on the implications of this disassociation, the spotlight remains on the critical relationship between literature and its historical backdrop.

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