When the Celestino Short Story Prize was established in 1999. A few imagined that this lyrical homage to the celebrated novel Celestino Before Dawn, by the indispensable Holguin native Reynaldo Arenas. It would become the definitive barometer of young Cuban literature.
In its 27th edition, the competition not only demonstrates its maturity but also reaffirms its value as an essential driving force for the intellectual life of Holguin. Transforming the Ediciones La Luz headquarters into a creative hotbed where universal tradition and the country’s young avant-garde converge.
The value of the Celestino Prize transcends the mere act of awarding a manuscript. Its true impact lies in its ability to energize the city’s cultural fabric through theoretical debate. Intergenerational exchange, and the promotion of reading. Uniting established local figures with emerging creators from across the archipelago.
Also the strength of this space was demonstrated during its second day of activities. The headquarters of the publishing house—the imprint of the Hermanos Saíz Association (AHS) in the province—was transformed into a stage of the highest intellectual caliber. With the panel dedicated to unraveling the life and work of the Argentine Jorge Luis Borges. One of the leading figures of world literature. To whom this edition is especially dedicated on the 40th anniversary of his death.
The renowned writers Manuel García Verdecia and Eugenio Marrón spoke masterfully about the multiple interpretations. Enduring relevance of the author of Ficciones, in a panel moderated by the writer Erian Peña Pupo.
As proof that Celestino is a living entity embracing new literary textures. The day continued with the presentation of “La visita” (The Visit). This theatrical text, written by the young Matanzas-born writer Alain Gómez Pérez. It demonstrates how the event serves as a showcase for the freshest national artistic creation. Also bringing talent to Holguin and connecting local audiences with the most contemporary aesthetics.
The theoretical program continues its hypertextual journey. Under the title “40 Years Without the Creator,” the Oda a la Joven Luz (Ode to Young Light) group hosts the third day of the event. On this occasion, writers Robert Ráez and Rubén Rodríguez will delve into Borges’s narrative work.
The festival’s epilogue, scheduled for Friday, will weave together literature with the history of the Cuban artistic avant-garde. The “Emergency Entrance” event will be dedicated to celebrating the four decades of the AHS (Hermanos Saíz Association). Also bringing together authors who have won the Calendario and Celestino awards for a grand public reading. Shortly afterward, at 11:00 a.m., the “Opening the Constellations” space will showcase the book “Morir un poco” (To Die a Little) by Andy Jorge Blanco.
Moreover the greatest anticipation, however, centers on the 29 works submitted from across the country. A distinguished jury, composed of Cuban writers Laidi Fernández de Juan and Mariela Varona. Along with renowned Argentine writer Kike Ferrari, has the responsibility of selecting the winning text.
The winner will receive a certificate, a cash prize, publication of their work by Ediciones La Luz. In both digital and print formats—and an exclusive piece of art. Donated by the heirs of the emblematic Holguin painter Cosme Proenza.
Throughout its 27 editions, the Celestino Prize has built a valuable intangible heritage for Holguin. By ensuring the continuation of a genre that refuses to lose its dominance on the island. The competition remains the guiding light that guarantees the short story maintains its vitality, rigor, and place of recognition in eastern Cuba.
By: Daimy Peña Guillén
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