At the Bogotá International Book Fair (FilBo), Spanish writers Fernando Aramburu, Ana Campoy, and Agustín Fernández Mallo participated in a debate on Friday about the concept of 'historical memory' and its relevance in literature and society.
During the discussion, the writers reflected on how the term 'historical memory' has been used in Spain and in other contexts, as well as its impact on literary narrative and the construction of collective identity. They expressed divergent opinions on the importance of remembering and confronting the past, highlighting the need to review historical events to understand the present.
Fernando Aramburu, known for his work 'Patria', addressed the complexity of tackling sensitive topics in literature and the writer's responsibility in representing historical facts. Ana Campoy shared her vision on how historical memory can influence the perception of history and the reconciliation of a society. For his part, Agustín Fernández Mallo explored the creative possibilities of reinterpreting the past from a contemporary perspective.
The debate at FilBo highlighted the relevance and currency of the concept of 'historical memory' today, as well as the ability of literature to reflect on and question established narratives. The writers invited the audience to reflect on the importance of remembering and preserving history as an act of justice and building a more just and equitable future.
