Vicente Espinales Tejena - Ecuadorian Literature

Vicente Espinales Tejena (Portoviejo, June 28, 1939) is an Ecuadorian poet, physician, lawyer, and cultural leader from Manabí. Best known for his poetry that celebrates the landscapes and people of his native region, Espinales gained national recognition after winning the Ismael Pérez Pazmiño Poetry Prize at the age of 20. Over the years, he has published numerous collections, including “Febrero” (1972) and “El Gorrión Regresa por sus Alas” (2001), solidifying his place in Ecuadorian literature. He has also served as President of the Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana, Núcleo de Manabí, contributing significantly to the promotion of arts and culture in the region.

Early Life and Education

Dr. Vicente Espinales Tejena was born on June 28, 1939, in Portoviejo, Ecuador. He completed his early education at the Colegio Nacional Olmedo, where he distinguished himself as an exemplary student. Espinales pursued higher education at the University of Guayaquil, where he obtained his degree in Medicine and Surgery. In addition to his medical education, he also earned a law degree from Vicente Rocafuerte Secular University, becoming an attorney in the Republic of Ecuador. His passion for learning extended beyond his medical and legal studies, as he also developed into a notable figure in poetry, painting, and theater.

Literary Career

Vicente Espinales Tejena has been a prolific poet whose work has gained national and international recognition. His first major success in literature came at the young age of 20, when he won the prestigious Ismael Pérez Pazmiño Poetry Prize. This victory propelled him into the literary spotlight, and he was soon included in multiple national and international anthologies.

Espinales has published numerous collections of poetry over the course of his career, many of which explore themes of love, nature, and his native land of Manabí. In addition to his individual works, Espinales has contributed significantly to Ecuadorian cultural life by serving as an editor and commentator in various publications, such as Diario El Siglo and El Diario. His poetry reflects his deep connection to the land of Manabí, and he often uses his writing to express his love for his native city of Portoviejo and its people.

Academic and Cultural Leadership

Espinales’ contributions have not been limited to the written word. He has been deeply involved in Ecuadorian cultural life, especially in his role as President of the Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana, Núcleo de Manabí, an influential cultural institution. He held this position for multiple terms, first assuming the presidency after 28 years of membership in the institution. His leadership was instrumental in advancing the arts and culture of the Manabí region, and he played a pivotal role in creating spaces for the development of local artists, poets, and performers.

Throughout his tenure at the Casa de la Cultura, Espinales worked to protect the institution’s autonomy and foster dialogue and collaboration with governmental and cultural entities. He has advocated for the preservation of Ecuador’s cultural heritage, including its intangible assets, and helped to elevate the visibility of Manabí’s artistic contributions on both national and international stages.

Personal Life and Community Engagement

In addition to his work in the arts, Espinales has also been a committed physician and community leader. He practiced as a cardiologist, combining his medical expertise with his passion for public service. Beyond his medical practice, Espinales has taught at several universities and mentored many young Ecuadorian poets and writers.

He has also served as an actor and director in Ecuadorian theater, bringing his deep understanding of human emotions to the stage. His diverse talents have made him a respected figure in both artistic and intellectual circles.

Recognitions and Accolades

Vicente Espinales Tejena’s significant contributions to Ecuadorian literature and culture have been widely recognized. Among his many honors, he was crowned Poeta Coronado for his lifetime achievements in poetry. This prestigious title is reserved for poets who demonstrate exceptional literary merit. Additionally, he was awarded the Vicente Rocafuerte Award by the Ecuadorian legislature, which recognizes individuals for their cultural and artistic achievements.

His poetry has not only been celebrated in print but also honored through public tributes. For instance, in 2013, Portoviejo’s Recital of Verses “Portoviejo es Poesía” was dedicated to him in conjunction with the city’s Festival of La Flor de Septiembre. The event drew poets from across the country to honor Espinales’ enduring legacy and impact on Ecuadorian poetry. In the same year, the Concurso Provincial de Declamación focused on his works, further highlighting his influence on young generations of poets.

Legacy

Now in his 80s, Dr. Vicente Espinales Tejena continues to be a living reference in Ecuadorian culture and literature. His work as a poet, cultural leader, and public servant has cemented his status as one of Manabí’s most distinguished figures. His poetry continues to inspire readers, and his dedication to the promotion of arts and culture in Ecuador remains a lasting contribution to the region.

Espinales’ literary and cultural legacy is not only a reflection of his personal journey but also a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Manabí. His works capture the essence of the local landscape while conveying universal themes of love, loss, and resilience. He remains a beloved figure in Ecuador and beyond, with his contributions continuing to shape the country’s cultural identity.

Videos

Crowned poet Vicente Espinales Tejena of Manabí, Ecuador gives a speech at the XIII Verse Recital “Portoviejo es Poesía” (Portoviejo is Poetry)

Uploaded to Youtube in 2013.

Vicente Espinales Tejena recites a poem at the International Day of Museums 8, organized by the House of Ecuadorian Culture