21st Century Writers - Ecuadorian Literature

George Perdomo Rodríguez

George Perdomo Rodríguez (Muisne, Esmeraldas, 1952) is an Ecuadorian writer and poet. After leaving his homeland, he settled in Palma de Mallorca, Spain. Through his literary works, he explores themes of immigration, capturing the struggles, aspirations, and emotions of those who leave their homeland in search of a better life. George Perdomo Rodríguez’s writing reflects his own experiences and offers a profound understanding of the human condition, resonating with readers both in Ecuador and Spain. “His books include: Balada del emigrante,” “Los sueños de las palomas,” “Saga de emigrantes,” “Senderos de Espumas,” “Isla de Ensueños,” among others.

Diógenes Cuero Caicedo

Diógenes Cuero Caicedo (Esmeraldas, October 28, 1948 – Ibidem, January 3, 2019) was an Ecuadorian poet, cultural activist, lawyer, university professor, and a prominent voice in celebrating and affirming black identity. Born in the poor black community of San Francisco de Ónzole in the Eloy Alfaro Canton, Cuero dedicated his life to promoting the culture and heritage of Afro-Ecuadorians. His literary journey began in the 1980s, using poetry as a means to explore themes of blackness, social justice, and the rich cultural legacy of his community. Through works like “Tsunami, Mitología y Poesía” and “Las Huellas de la Carimba,” Cuero illuminated the experiences, struggles, and contributions of Afro-Ecuadorians, challenging stereotypes and fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of black identity. His impact as a poet and cultural advocate continues to resonate, leaving a lasting legacy in Ecuadorian literature. He held a doctorate in Jurisprudence and for 20 years hosted a radio program called “Raíces” (Roots), where he spoke about the culture of his people.

Amanda Pazmiño Torres

Amanda Pazmiño Torres (Quito, Ecuador, 1993) is an Ecuadorian poet, writer, and teacher of language and English. She has been actively involved in cultural promotion and served as a Cultural Ambassador at the FIL Lima in 2012. In 2020, Pazmiño published her first poetry book, titled “Les hablaré de ti a todos los mares que fragüen un hogar en mis ojos,” which won the 12th edition of the Ileana Espinel Cedeño National Poetry Contest. She leads the ERGO International Cultural Group in Ecuador. She directs workshops focused on creative writing and personal growth, using writing as a tool for self-discovery. She is the director of the poetic writing workshop titled “Camino hacia el equilibrio: palabras que sanan” (Path to Balance: Healing Words). Her poems have been published in the newspaper El Ciudadano and several anthologies. Her poetry booklet “Recorrido de abismo” (Journey through the Abyss) was selected and published by the editorial imprint Despertar (Loja, 2017).

María Belén Muñoz

María Belén Muñoz Menéndez (El Carmen, Ecuador) is an Ecuadorian poet, writer, cultural promoter, professor, and Agricultural Engineer with a Master’s degree in Environmental Development. She has held positions such as the Coordinator of the Culture Department at the Universidad Laica Eloy Alfaro de Manabí, Campus “El Carmen,” where she contributed her expertise as a university teacher. Additionally, she served as the National Coordinator of the International Art Group “Plaza XXI,” Ecuador Chapter. Her exceptional talents and accomplishments led to her participation as part of the delegation of Ecuadorian writers at the prestigious International Book Fair in Cuba in 2011. Furthermore, she was actively involved with the International Art Group “Plaza XXI,” serving as the National Coordinator for the Ecuador Chapter. María Belén also played a significant role as the president of the House of Culture in the canton of El Carmen.

Máxima Angulo Borja

Máxima Angulo Borja, born in San Lorenzo, Esmeraldas, is an Ecuadorian poet. Her poetry is deeply rooted in personal experiences and activism, exploring themes of Afro-Ecuadorian identity. In 2018, Angulo published her book “Pininos Literarios” through the House of Ecuadorian Culture of Esmeraldas. This work delves into Afro-Ecuadorian culture, incorporating mythological characters such as La Tunda, El Riviel, and La Gualgura to emphasize their cultural significance. The book also pays tribute to the marimba, a traditional musical instrument in Esmeraldas. Angulo’s writing resonates with readers through its accessible language and vivid descriptions, shedding light on social realities and preserving ancestral customs. Currently residing in Muisne, a coastal town in the southwest of Esmeraldas province in northwestern Ecuador, Máxima Angulo Borja works as a literature and language teacher at Unidad Educativa Muisne.

Orlando Tenorio

Orlando Tenorio Cuero (Esmeraldas, May 22, 1945) is an Afro-Ecuadorian poet and writer. Tenorio’s poetry explores a variety of topics, providing deep observations on social consciousness, struggle, and the human condition. His notable books include “Desde atrás de la vida” [From Behind Life], “El Alfabeto de las golondrinas” [The Swallows’ Alphabet], and “Epistlas para el hombre y el mar” [Epistles to Man and the Sea]. Tenorio also served as president of the Esmeraldas chapter of the House of Ecuadorian Culture (Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana), displaying his dedication to fostering arts and culture in his region.

Ingrid Bravo Ruiz

Ingrid Bravo Ruiz (Manabí) is an Ecuadorian poet and politician. Her debut poetry book, titled “El dolor de tu ausencia” (2014), is a remarkable testament to her poetic talent and introspective nature. Published when she was just 17 years old, this collection explores the depths of love, longing, and the profound impact of loss. Furthermore, Ingrid Bravo Ruiz holds the distinction of being the youngest poet featured in the poetry anthology titled “Antología poética de mujeres manabitas: voces de ternura al corazón del pueblo” (Poetic Anthology of Manabí Women: Voices of Tenderness to the Heart of the People), compiled by Vicenta Alarcón Castro in 2019.

Libertad Regalado Espinoza

Dr. Libertad Regalado Espinoza (Jipijapa, April 26, 1956) is a Numerary Member of the National Academy of History of Ecuador. She is a pedagogue, writer, and researcher. She has written books, scientific articles, and works related to history and intangible cultural manifestations of the coastal peoples of Ecuador, particularly Manabí. Her notable works include “Manabí y su comida milenaria” (Manabí and Its Ancient Cuisine, 2008-2029), “Las hebras que tejieron nuestra historia” (The Threads that Wove Our History, 2010), “Identidad e indigenismo en Manabí” (Identity and Indigenism in Manabí, 2016), “Santa Ana madre del río Grande” (Santa Ana, Mother of the Great River, 2019), and “The amorfino manifestación cutltural del pueblo montuvio” (El Amorfino, Cultural Manifestation of the Montuvio People, 2019). She has worked on various consultancies and has participated in national and international congresses. In 2020, the National Assembly of Ecuador awarded her the “Dra. Matilde Hidalgo de Prócel” decoration.

César Eduardo Carrión

César Eduardo Carrión (1976) is a prolific writer with a diverse literary repertoire. Holding a doctoral degree in Latin American Literature from the Universidad Andina Simón Bolívar, he is currently a professor at the Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador. César has established himself as a respected figure in the Ecuadorian literary landscape, with a notable list of published works. His poetry books include “Revés de luz” (2006), “Pirografías” (2008), “Limalla babélica” (2009), “Poemas en una Jaula de Faraday” (2010), “Cinco maneras de armar un travesti” (2011), “Emboscada” (2017), “Es lodo y es polvo y es humo y es nada” (2018), and “Emboscada / Ambush” (translated by Kimrey Anna Batts, 2019). Additionally, César has contributed to the field of essays with several works, delving into various topics. Through his literary contributions and academic expertise, César Eduardo Carrión has made a significant impact on Ecuadorian literature.

Juan Fernando Auquilla

Juan Fernando Auquilla Díaz (Cuenca, 1973) is an Ecuadorian poet, writer, and teacher. He is an accomplished poet, with five published poetry collections to his name: Divagaciones y profanaciones (2005), Ciudad Nómada (2010), Estaciones (2017), Sábanas Resucitadas (2019), and Ciudades (2020). Additionally, his works have been featured in poetry anthologies from Argentina, Spain, and Italy, showcasing the widespread recognition of his talent and literary contributions. As a member of the House of Ecuadorian Culture in Azuay, he has contributed to social projects focused on poetry and creative writing for vulnerable groups, including incarcerated individuals. He currently teaches at the National University of Education (UNAE).

Kimrey Anna Batts

Kimrey Anna Batts (1983) is an American translator known for her exceptional work in translating the poetry and fiction of contemporary Ecuadorian authors, including Santiago Vizcaíno and César Eduardo Carrión. Originally from rural East Tennessee, she pursued her studies in Anthropology and Latin American Studies at the University of Michigan. In 2006, she made the decision to move to Ecuador, where her passion for literature and language flourished, leading her to embark on a successful career as a professional translator. Kimrey pursued a Master’s degree in Literary Translation at the University Pompeu Fabra in Barcelona, further honing her skills and deepening her understanding of the craft. Her dedication and talent shine through in her published works, which have graced the pages of prestigious literary publications such as The Brooklyn Rail, Lunch Ticket, Bitter Oleander Review, Ezra, Cordite Poetry Review, Mantis, Asymptote, and Exchanges, among others. Currently, Kimrey resides in Mexico, continuing to contribute to the world of literary translation with her remarkable expertise and love for languages and literature.

Issa Aguilar Jara

Issa Aguilar Jara (Cuenca, 1988) is an Ecuadorian poet and journalist. She has authored 3 critically-acclaimed poetry collections. Her debut poetry book, “Con M de mote se escribe Mojigata” (2018), fearlessly challenges the conservative aspects of her hometown with intimate and satirical verses, and delves into intimate themes, including her relationship with her father. Her second collection, “Poliamor town” (2020), delves into themes of love, diverse relationships, and the complexities of human connections. In 2022, her latest book, “Dos tragos de sinestesia o El diablo verde,” won the prestigious César Dávila Andrade National Poetry Prize, further solidifying her reputation as a notable voice in contemporary Ecuadorian poetry. Aguilar’s work has resonated with readers, particularly the younger generation, making her books popular in Cuenca.

Paulina Jaramillo Valdivieso

Paulina Jaramillo Valdivieso (Loja, 1963) is an Ecuadorian poet, writer, and children’s literature author. She has authored six books, including “Mitos que madrugan al sol” and “Estatura de tiempo y convergencia,” which reflect both her personal experiences and Andean heritage. Her father, the poet Alfredo Jaramillo Andrade, was a significant influence in her life. Her work in literature has earned her several accolades, including recognition as a distinguished woman in literature from the Ecuadorian Committee for Cooperation with the Inter-American Commission of Women in 2009. Additionally, she has served as the coordinator of the Alfredo Mora Reyes Cultural Center for the past 15 years and hosts a cultural radio program called “Escenario.”

Mariasol Pons

Mariasol Pons Cruz (Guayaquil, 1979) is an Ecuadorian novelist. She left her hometown at the age of 19 and lived in France, Spain and Colombia before returning to Ecuador in 2012. She has authored 3 novels, “La Chica” (2013), “El libro de Olga” (2017), and “¿De quién son estas piernas?” (2021). Currently, she resides in Guayaquil and works as an editorialist for the newspapers Diario Expreso, Diario de Manabí, and La República.

Luis Espinosa Goded

Luis Espinosa Goded is a Spanish professor of economics, researcher, and columnist who currently resides in Ecuador. He is a faculty member at the College of Business Administration and Economics at the Universidad San Francisco de Quito. In 2019, he co-authored the book “Crónicas del socialismo del siglo XXI” with professor Andrés Ortiz Lemos. The book provides a critical perspective on 20th century socialism in Ecuador.