Historical approach to Afro-Cuban poetry

Abstract

In the late 1920s a group of Cuban writers interested in the social structure of their country began publishing poems dwelling upon the theme of social injustice and Afro-Cuban idiosyncrasy. These poets, known as Afro-Cuban poets, shared a number of similarities not only in the social theme of their poems but also in their techniques of writing and their influence upon society. The purpose of this study is to explore the implications of social change that took place in Cuba based on the influence of the Afro-Cuban population. The dissertation consists of eight sections: Chapter I traces the development of slavery in Cuba since its beginning in the sixteenth century until its abolition during the nineteenth century. Chapter II studies the social and psychological characteristics of the Afro-Cuban immigrants and haw it has been preserved throughout the years. Chapter III gives a brief recount of the major historical events that took place in Cuba since its discovery in the end of the fifteenth century until present days. Special interest is given to the participation of the Negroes in these historical events. Chapter IV examines the precursors of Afro-Cuban poetry dating as far back as 1608 when the Espejo de Paciencia by Silvestre de Balboa was published in Cuba. The differences between these earlier works and the later ones are made relevant. Chapter V traces the evolution of Afro-Cuban poetry mainly during its apogee from 1930 to 1940. Chapter VI looks at the social content of these poems and their geographic expansion mainly throughout the Latin American countries. Chapter VII analyzes the importance that music and theatrical activities play among the Negroes and explains their significance. Chapter VIII considers the ethnic influences in the development of Cuban society. In conclusion, this work assures the validity of this short-lived literary movement that sought, among other things, a better understanding among men regardless of their ethnic background.