Pedro Juan Gutiérrez

O texto de Pedro Juan Gutiérrez corta fundo na carne e faz desta história de um jovem cubano o relato de uma vida de abandono e sofrimento que poderia se passar em outras grandes cidades da América Latina. Importante perceber que não é só a pobreza que induz esta condição mas um futuro sem qualquer perspectiva de mudança senão pela ação da violência sem limites, que de fato não conduz ao novo, mas apenas pavimenta um destino já traçado. Um outro jeito de descobrir Cuba e seu povo.… (mais)

Gutierrez's novel is often compared to Henry Miller's novels but whereas Miller's raucous depictions of his sexual exploits are infused with joy and exhilaration despite his dire economic situation, "Dirty Havana Trilogy" is a real downer. The sex is abundant and raunchy, but also desperate, joyless and depressing. Sex, like liquor and drugs, serves as an anesthetic for the horrible conditions the people in this novel live in. Be warned -- it also contains a very graphic depiction of a prolonged rape and assault. Not my cup of tea.… (mais)

Well, The Dirty Havana Trilogy is quite the ride. Be forewarned, it truly is dirty. Sounds better if one says ribald but dirty isn't inaccurate. If that kind of prose offends you, do not pick it up. But dirty/ribald is not all the book is. It's also a raw, eloquent, sad, heroic and honest portrait of ordinary people living in extraordinary circumstances. It is, by turns, funny, offensive, and painfully touching. The characters face poverty and hopelessness with an often riveting commitment to survival.

Many reviewers compare the work to Bukowski or Celine. It certainly warrants that comparison. I think, however, this work will not age as gracefully. Many modern readers will not be able to get past the ever-present racism, sexism, homophobia, and misogyny. The reality of their presence in the life of the characters is impossible to avoid. Yet, the book is tribute to the richness of life and the human struggle for meaning and survival.

At least one reviewer (from the National Review) wants to frame this as a political piece revealing the ugliness of "Communist" Cuba. A person can read the book from that perspective but that is most certainly not what this book is about. This tale would resonate with many readers throughout the Caribbean and, in fact, much of the developing world. To portray the book as a political tract does the book and the reader a great disservice.… (mais)