130 Years On, Collection of Juan L. Ortiz Books Published

To commemorate the 130th anniversary of the birth of Argentine writer Juan L. Ortiz, known as "Juanele," a new collection of his complete works has been launched. The initiative by the National University of the Littoral and the National University of Entre Ríos aims to reintroduce the poet's oeuvre to a new generation of readers.

Two initial titles, "La mano infinita" (1951) and "El Gualeguay" (1971), are now available. These editions include prologues by literary critics Marilyn Contardi and Sergio Delgado, who directs the collection. The project plans to publish a total of fourteen titles, many of which have not been re-edited since their original, often self-published, artisanal editions decades ago.

Marilyn Contardi, who shared a close relationship with Ortiz, highlights the "wonder and expression of that wonder" in his poetry, noting his deep appreciation for nature's forms. Sergio Delgado, in his introduction to "El Gualeguay," reflects on Ortiz's enduring questions about mortality and the future, themes that permeate his work. Delgado points out how Ortiz often found a sense of renewal and continuity in nature, seeing life emerge even after apparent death, a perspective that continues to resonate today.