Augusto “Tito” Monterroso…el autor del cuento más breve de la literatura.

Summary

This interview with Augusto Monterroso delves into his life as a writer, his literary influences, and his philosophical approach to writing. It highlights his early experiences in Guatemala, his exile in Mexico, and his dedication to the craft of literature, with a focus on his meticulous, slow-paced writing process. Monterroso reflects on the importance of language, the relationship between literature and life, and his personal journey of self-discovery. The conversation reveals his respect for the power of words and the art of storytelling, shedding light on his iconic works and his introspective nature as an artist.

Takeaways

• 😀 Augusto Monterroso is considered more Guatemalan than Honduran, despite being born in Tegucigalpa. His literary career began in Guatemala, but he gained recognition in Mexico after fleeing the political persecution in Guatemala.
• 😀 Monterroso's works were published sparingly, with a new title every six years or so, reflecting his rigorous and thoughtful writing process.
• 😀 His works have been translated into various languages, including English, French, Italian, Portuguese, Latin, German, and more, contributing to his widespread recognition.
• 😀 Monterroso's literary works, such as 'When the Dinosaur Awoke' and 'The Black Sheep', are considered timeless classics. His concise storytelling style is famous for its brevity and depth.
• 😀 Despite his fame, Monterroso finds the process of publishing a book to be traumatic. He emphasizes the deep respect he has for literature and the rigorous self-examination that accompanies his writing.
• 😀 Monterroso's writing process is highly meticulous, with a focus on precision, punctuation, and style. He has spent months refining even a single sentence or line of his works.
• 😀 In his interview, Monterroso reflects on his early years and the solitary nature of his childhood. His initial literary learning was self-taught, and he did not have formal education in literature.
• 😀 Monterroso’s career has included significant roles in promoting culture in Mexico, working in various cultural institutions, editing books, and teaching in universities.
• 😀 Monterroso attributes much of his literary development to his life experiences, and he acknowledges the importance of friends and real-life experiences in shaping his creative journey.
• 😀 His work 'The Gold Seekers' reflects a symbolic journey of self-discovery and explores themes of personal and familial challenges, providing an introspective look at his childhood and family life.
• 😀 Monterroso’s writing is not just about communicating information; it serves as an emotional and artistic medium that connects deeply with readers, blending communication and artistic expression.

Q & A

Why is Augusto Monterroso considered more Guatemalan than Honduran despite being born in Tegucigalpa?

Monterroso is considered more Guatemalan than Honduran due to his literary career's significant ties to Guatemala, where he began his writing journey, and his active opposition to the Guatemalan dictatorial government, which eventually led him into exile in Mexico.

How did Monterroso's career as a writer evolve after his move to Mexico in 1944?

In Mexico, Monterroso's literary career was solidified after escaping persecution in Guatemala. He began formalizing his literary studies, and his works, including the highly regarded 'Complete Works,' became a significant part of Latin American literature.

What is the significance of the title 'Complete Works' in Monterroso's literary journey?

The title 'Complete Works' is notable because Monterroso published it before even writing all his works. This title, used for one of his stories, highlights his approach to literature as an ongoing process of creation and refinement.

Why did Monterroso take a long time between publishing his books?

Monterroso was highly self-critical and maintained a strict, perfectionist approach to his writing. He would publish a new book approximately every six years, reflecting his deep respect for literature and his desire to ensure that each piece was meticulously crafted.

What was Monterroso’s relationship with language and the writing process?

Monterroso's relationship with language was characterized by a deep respect for its artistic and emotional potential. He viewed writing as a delicate balance of communication and artistic expression, often spending months refining a single sentence or paragraph.

How does Monterroso's famous short story 'When the Dinosaur Woke Up' reflect his approach to literature?

The story, often regarded as the shortest in the world, showcases Monterroso's ability to evoke profound meaning in very few words. His meticulous attention to detail, punctuation, and structure demonstrates his dedication to achieving clarity and depth in his writing.

What role did Monterroso’s early life and lack of formal education play in his literary career?

Despite not attending university or having formal education, Monterroso's self-driven learning and his experiences with literature were pivotal in shaping his career. His autodidactic journey helped him develop a unique, personal approach to writing.

What is the underlying theme of Monterroso’s 'The Gold Seekers'?

The theme of 'The Gold Seekers' revolves around the quest for something valuable, symbolized by the child searching for gold in a river. The story reflects the pursuit of poetry and artistic expression, which, like gold, is difficult to attain but deeply meaningful.

How does Monterroso describe the impact of his family on his literary development?

Monterroso acknowledges that his family, with its complexities and challenges, played a crucial role in shaping his understanding of life and literature. His writing often explores the intricacies of family relationships and the personal struggles tied to his upbringing.

What does Monterroso believe is the most difficult part of self-discovery?

Monterroso believes that self-discovery is a lifelong process, one that involves confronting personal truths and understanding the complexities of one's past. He describes the experience of reconnecting with his childhood and his family as both painful and enlightening.