Books Come Alive in "Estos pequeños libros que quedan," a Play Exploring Life and Literature

Cynthia Edul's latest work, "Estos pequeños libros que quedan" (These Small Books That Remain), offers a profound exploration of the intricate relationship between personal lives and the world of literature. Staged at Arthaus Central, the play centers on a mother and daughter, portrayed by Mónica Raiola and Agustina Muñoz, who are engaged in a search for a hidden envelope amongst stacks of books. Their quest becomes a journey through memories, shared moments, and unresolved grief, with the books themselves acting as catalysts for revelation.

“

A disorder can be an adventure.

The production creatively integrates a third character, the "Biblioteca" (Library), played by Ignacio Sánchez Mestre. This sentient entity interacts with the human characters, offering literary quotes and insights that resonate with their emotional states. The play weaves in references from classic and contemporary literature, including works by Pablo Neruda, César Vallejo, Shakespeare, Cervantes, Borges, and Vivian Gornick, highlighting how literature can articulate unspoken feelings and experiences. The intimate setting, surrounded by books and bathed in warm light, creates a magical atmosphere.

“

Poetry can say things that one wouldn't know how to say in any other way.

Edul, also a novelist and cultural manager, founded the self-managed performing arts collective Paraíso Club de Artes Escénicas, which produced the play in collaboration with Arthaus. "Estos pequeños libros que quedan" is praised for its gentle handling of fragile and endearing material, intertwining the characters' lives with literary narratives to create a rich dialogue. The play runs on select dates through September.

“

I can write the saddest verses tonight.