Spanish Poet Jaime Siles Wins Prestigious Reina Sofía Prize for Ibero-American Poetry

The XXXV Reina Sofía Prize for Ibero-American Poetry, Spain's most significant award in the field, has been bestowed upon Spanish poet and philologist Jaime Siles. The prize, carrying a €42,100 (approximately $49,000) endowment, honors the complete poetic output of a living author.

The jury lauded Siles, born in Valencia in 1951, for embodying the "Renaissance ideal of the total artist." They highlighted his capacity to unite the abstract and the sensory with an expression that approaches scientific discourse, while also delving into fundamental questions of identity and its relationship with human nature. Ana de la Cueva, president of Spain's National Heritage, noted his poetic experience at the intersection of philosophical reflection and critical thinking poetry.

Siles was chosen from a pool of 65 candidates representing 15 nationalities. Juan Manuel Corchado, rector of the University of Salamanca, described Siles as one of the most distinguished poets of contemporary Spanish literature, whose work spans poetry, philosophy, and literary criticism. Corchado also noted that Siles is an alumnus of the university, where he earned his doctorate in Philology and briefly served as an interim professor.

Raquel Lanseros, a poet and spokesperson for the jury, characterized Siles's poetry as deeply rooted in classical Greco-Latin traditions, where antiquity serves not as mere ornament but as a worldview. A philologist, translator, and professor specializing in classical languages, Siles is recognized as a leading figure of the Spanish 1970s generation. His extensive accolades include the National Literature Prize and the International Generación del 27 Prize. Notable works include "Canon" (2013), "Música de agua" (1983), and "Himnos tardíos" (1999). His poetry is known for its formal refinement and classical influences, evolving from "culturalism" towards a more "metaphysical" style. The award ceremony, to be presided over by Queen Sofía, will take place in the final quarter of the year and includes the publication of an anthology and academic studies of his work.