Conveying the complex enigmatic contradiction that is Argentina in the pages of a book is accomplished in this installment of Duke’s “Latin America Readers” series (Peru 1995, Brazil 1999, Mexico 2003, Cuba 2003). Defining what Argentina is—an impossible task in itself—is not the purpose of this book. Instead, one of its great strengths is that it challenges the standard overarching generalizations of Argentina as a European poser. The editors collected a wide swath of pieces including speeches, essays, articles and poems. And with the help of informative introductions to each thematic section and short descriptions of each piece, the editors provide ample context for any reader to appreciate Argentina’s rich culture and history.
The book dispels some of these oversimplifications—bordering on misconceptions—by giving voice to often historically neglected sectors of the population. Multiple selections in the book, for instance, demonstrate the influence of Afro-Argentines and indigenous peoples despite their positions at the margins of society. And women permeate the pages of the book as they do Argentine history with such selections as “Women in the Fatherland,” “Modern Women” and “Feminist Awakenings.” But there is no denying the country’s European semblance either. The enormous European immigration is given notice, and with it, the importation of a variety of political philosophies. The journalistic piece on the rise of the radical left in the early 20th century and the story of the legendary anarchist assassin, Simón Radowitzky, accomplish this task nicely. More recent events are also aptly covered, including an entire chilling section on “State Violence” and another on “Democracy and Neoliberalism.” In one humorous selection called “Are We All Neurotic?” an anonymous author parodies Argentina’s obsession with psychoanalysis. From sports and arts to history and politics this is a welcome and timely addition to our understanding of Argentina.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Teo Ballvé is associate editor of theNACLA Report
