Description
OUR APOCRYPHAL CLASSICS
Book summary
A revealing anthology that explores the fascinating tradition of apocryphal literature in Catalan, from its origins to the 20th century. Julià Guillamon gathers texts that imitate, parody, and pay homage to the great names of Catalan letters, such as Josep Pla, Mercè Rodoreda, or Josep M. de Sagarra. The reader will discover how literary imitation has been a game of intelligence, a critical tool, and a display of admiration. It includes pieces published in historical magazines such as L'Esquella de la Torratxa and El Be Negre, as well as creations by contemporary authors such as Quim Monzó and Sergi Pàmies.
What is it about?
The book traces the history of Catalan literature through its apocryphal versions: texts written imitating the style of established authors, often with parodic or critical intent. The anthology spans from Cerverí de Girona to Montserrat Roig and Baltasar Porcel, as well as key figures such as Rosa M. Arquimbau. Many of these texts, by unknown authors, originally appeared in satirical publications such as L'Esquella de la Torratxa, Papitu, and El Be Negre. The work also includes apocrypha signed by contemporary authors such as Terenci Moix, Ramon Barnils, Quim Monzó, and Sergi Pàmies, and is completed by an apocryphal art gallery that gathers fake Nonells, Dalís, and Mirós.
Main themes
- Literary parody and critique of authority in the Catalan tradition
- Stylistic imitation as an intellectual game and exercise in admiration
- Apocryphal and anonymous literature in 19th and 20th-century satirical magazines
- Relationship between literary creation and intentional forgery
- Revision of Catalan literary history from a playful perspective
Who is it recommended for?
This book is aimed at readers interested in Catalan literature, literary criticism, and cultural history. It will be especially attractive to those who enjoy parody, intelligent humor, and stylistic games. It is also a reference work for scholars of comparative literature and for those who want to discover a lesser-known facet of classical and contemporary authors.
What this book offers
- A unique anthology of apocryphal texts that reveal the parodic tradition in Catalan
- Historical and literary context regarding the phenomenon of imitation and forgery
- Access to hard-to-find pieces, originally published in satirical magazines
- A playful and critical look at the great names of Catalan letters
- Includes an apocryphal art gallery with fake visual works by renowned artists
Technical specifications
- Author: GUILLAMON, JULIÀ
- Publisher: Editorial Males Herbes
- Language: cat
- Subject: MODERN AND CONTEMPORARY FICTION
- Collection: DISTORSIONS
- Binding: Paperback
- Publication date: March 2023
- Number of pages: 386
- Weight: 300 g
Editorial review
A rigorous and entertaining anthology that sheds light on an often-ignored literary practice. Julià Guillamon demonstrates a deep knowledge of the Catalan tradition and offers the reader a varied selection that combines erudition and humor. The inclusion of texts by contemporary authors and an apocryphal art gallery enriches the proposal and makes it a reference work for enthusiasts and specialists.