“Today Goya would be painting immigrant boats”

As he approaches his 47th birthday, a Madrid-born writer living in Zaragoza reflects on his life and artistic perspectives. Married with a 14-year-old son, Daniel, he identifies as an atheist, finding his sense of transcendence not in religion, but in the power of art.

His thoughts turn to the renowned Spanish painter Francisco Goya, particularly his "Black Paintings." The writer suggests that Goya's original works, far from being solely dark, held a complex emotional depth. He posits that if Goya were alive today, his artistic vision would likely capture the poignant reality of immigrant boats, a contemporary theme reflecting human struggle and migration.

This contemplation bridges historical art with present-day social issues, highlighting the enduring relevance of artistic expression in commenting on the human condition. The writer's personal reflections underscore a belief in art's capacity to engage with and interpret the world, both past and present.