Miguel Barnet
Miguel Barnet, born on January 28, 1940, in Havana, Cuba, is a prominent Cuban writer, ethnologist, and cultural advocate known for his exploration of Cuban folklore and the significant African influences that shape the country’s cultural identity. He studied social sciences at the University of Havana and began his specialization in ethnology and folklore at a young age. His notable work, "Biografía de un cimarrón" (1966), chronicles the life of former slave Esteban Montejo, highlighting the experiences of marginalized individuals within Cuban society. Through this work, Barnet not only gives a voice to the voiceless but also addresses the complexities of cultural heritage.
In addition to his literary contributions, Barnet founded the Fernando Ortiz Foundation in 1995, aimed at preserving and researching Cuban culture. His writings, including novels such as "Canción de Rachel" (1969) and "Gallego," provide insights into overlooked segments of the Cuban population. Recognized not only for his literary prowess—having received numerous awards—but also for his dedication to cultural preservation, Barnet has earned honorary degrees from various institutions. His work remains influential in understanding the rich tapestry of Cuba's history and culture, particularly the stories of those who have historically been silenced.
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Miguel Barnet
Author
- Born: November 28, 1940
- Place of Birth: Havana, Cuba
Biography
Miguel Barnet was born on January 28, 1940, in Havana, Cuba. He studied social sciences at the University of Havana, graduating in 1960. He was part of a team that specialized in ethnology and folklore at the Sciences Academy of Cuba. At the age of twenty-one, he began to specialize in Cuban folklore and ethnology, focusing on the powerful African influences upon Cuban heritage and customs.
Barnet conducted some of his research with fellow ethnologist Fernando Ortiz Fernandez. The two would develop a profound personal friendship and professional relationship. In 1995, Barnet founded the Fernando Ortiz Foundation and served as its president. The foundation is dedicated to researching and preserving the roots of Cuban culture.
Barnet attained an international literary reputation with the publication of Biografía de un cimarrón (1966; The Autobiography of a Runaway Slave, 1966); cimarrón is a word used in Cuba for a runaway African slave. In this book, Barnet interviewed and recounted the life story of former slave Esteban Montejo. Barnet first learned about the 104-year-old Montejo when he read about him in a newspaper article. In his book about Montejo, Barnet was able to capture Montejo’s story and put a face on a faceless people. Barnet had always been fascinated by runaway slaves in hiding and the mythology that had built up around them because they could never allow themselves to be seen or to become a part of any society. His fascination clearly comes through in his writing and in the care and respect with which he treats Montejo’s story.
As with Biografía de un cimarrón, Barnet’s novels highlight a segment of the Cuban population that is otherwise ignored. Canción de Rachel (1969; Rachel’s Song: A Novel, 1991) takes the reader back to 1920s Cuba through the memories of an aged singer and prostitute. Gallego explores the emigrant Glazier population on the island and its impact on Cuban culture. Barnet also is a screenwriter and documentary writer, and he has adapted his novels Gallego and Canción de Rachel for the screen.
Barnet has received numerous prizes, including the Order Juan Marinello in 1996; the order Felix Varela, 1995; the Cuban National Prize for Literature, 1994; the Garcia Lorca Prize, 2002; and a grant from the Guggenheim Foundation. His short story "Fátima o el Parque de la Fraternidad" was awarded the Juan Rulfo International Short Story Prize in 2006, and its English translation, "Fátima, Queen of the Night," was nominated for a Pushcart Prize in 2012. In addition to being recognized for his achievements in writing, Barnet also has received acclaim for his research and commitment to preserving Cuban culture. He has been awarded an honorary degree in contemporary history from the University of Havana and an honorary doctorate in historical sciences from the faculty of anthropological sciences of the Independent University of the Yucatan, Merida, Mexico. Barnet’s greatest literary achievement and contribution is his ability to give a voice to the voiceless by telling the world their stories.
Bibliography
Barnet, Miguel. "A Conversation with Miguel Barnet Lanza." Interview by Salim Lamrani. Huffpost Politics. TheHuffingtonPost.com, 26 June 2014. Web. 22 Apr. 2016.
Barnet, Miguel. "Miguel Barnet: The Boundaries between Genres Are Increasingly Invisible." Interview by Mireya Castañeda. Granma. Granma, 24 Feb. 2016. Web. 22 Apr. 2016.
Echevarría, Roberto González . "'Biografía de un cimarrón' and the Novel of the Cuban Revolution." Novel: A Forum on Fiction 13.3 (1980): 249–63. Print.
Zeuske, Michael. "The Cimarrón in the Archives: A Re-Reading of Miguel Barnet's Biography of Esteban Montejo." NWIG: New West Indian Guide 71.3–4 (1997): 265–79. Print.