Peru mourns Nobel laureate Mario Vargas Llosa, who died at 89, with tributes pouring in globally, and a day of national mourning declared. The country’s flag was lowered at public institutions, and bookstores prominently displayed his works. He was recognized as a key figure in Latin American literature, with leaders celebrating his contributions and intellectual legacy.
On Monday, the Peruvian flag was flown at half-staff as the nation entered a day of mourning for the esteemed writer Mario Vargas Llosa, who passed away at his family home at the age of 89. President Dina Boluarte attended a private wake, where tributes from around the world, including numerous wreaths, honored the novelist and Nobel laureate. Vargas Llosa’s notable works include “Conversacion en la catedral” and “La guerra del fin del mundo”, and he will be cremated in a private ceremony.
Admirers gathered outside Vargas Llosa’s home in Lima, offering tributes and holding his books, with many expressing their deep sorrow. Artist David Marreros remarked, “His passing will mark a before and after in the history of world literature,” highlighting the writer’s significant impact. Philosopher Gustavo Ruiz shared his personal connection, stating that Vargas Llosa once expressed, “Literature saved my life.”
The Nobel Prize committee recognized Vargas Llosa as a prominent figure in Latin American literature, commending him for his “cartography of structures of power” and his gripping portrayals of the human condition. During the wake, Boluarte was warmly received by Vargas Llosa’s family, who expressed gratitude for the community’s support and condolences from around the globe.
The cause of Vargas Llosa’s death is undisclosed, although reports indicated a decline in his health in the preceding months. As a tribute, public institutions and police barracks displayed the Peruvian flag at half-staff. Local bookstores honored his legacy by prominently showcasing his works and providing discounts. At Leoncio Prado Military School, cadets formed human lines to spell the writer’s initials.
Vargas Llosa was a pivotal figure in the Latin American literary “boom.” He celebrated his 89th birthday on March 28 amidst declining health. President Boluarte noted his “intellectual genius” on social media, stating that his legacy will endure. Leaders from Mexico and Chile also praised his work and storytelling ability, while Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez lauded him as the “universal master of the word.” Vargas Llosa’s oeuvre has been translated into approximately 30 languages, and while he spent years in Paris, he was also deeply connected to Spain. The family has chosen not to hold a public memorial, respecting Vargas Llosa’s final wishes.
Mario Vargas Llosa’s death has left an indelible mark on literature and culture, prompting recognition of his contributions as a writer. His global influence is evidenced by heartfelt tributes and expressions of love from those who admired his work. The day of national mourning in Peru exemplifies the profound respect and gratitude the nation holds for his literary legacy, which will resonate for generations to come.
Original Source: www.kpvi.com
