JOURNEY TO THE ALCARRIA

by Camilo Jose Cela ‧ RELEASE DATE: N/A

The American public is being introduced to Spain's leading modern writer with two books in translation this fall, illustrating -- with fine examples- the two genres in which his reputation is secure over a period of twenty odd years. An extraordinarily powerful novel, The Family of Pascual Duarte is being published by Atlantic Monthly Press in September (see report p. 678). About two weeks later this exquisite travel book appears. It has a deceptive simplicity and can be read solely for the subtle style, the technical brilliance in a fine translation by Mrs. Lopez-Morillas. Few will read it for the tonic quality of the travels themselves, for this records a ten-day walking trip through the Alcarria, a mountainous rural area northeast of Spain, still primitive (back in 1946 when the trip was taken). But all sensitive readers will sense the initive understanding of the Spanish people encountered, whether vagabonds (as he himself appeared), travelling salesmen, peddlers, or people of the village-priests, women washing clothes, an idiot beggar boy, innkeepers, and friendly souls who gave him lodging and shared their food. The symbolism -- reflecting as it does Spain's ""tired body"" and ""divided soul""- comes through in the selection made of characters portrayed. But what really counts, for this reader anyhow, is the panorama of life and color and character, through vivid descriptions and minute anecdotes.

Pub Date: N/A

ISBN: 0871133792

Page Count: -

Publisher: Univ. of Wisconsin Press

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 15, 1964

Categories: NONFICTION