South Korean Nobel Literature laureate Han Kang recently expressed her admiration for Antoni Gaudí's iconic architecture during a visit to Barcelona. She participated in a prestigious photo shoot for La Vanguardia's Sant Jordi cover.
Nobel Laureate's Barcelona Visit
The acclaimed author, known for works like "The Vegetarian", joined a select group of Spanish literary figures. They gathered on the rooftop of the Alma Hotel, a luxury establishment located in the Eixample district. From this vantage point, she observed the Sagrada Família's recently crowned Jesus tower. She also saw the distinctive façade of La Pedrera, another Gaudí masterpiece.
Speaking with journalist Xavi Ayén, Han Kang remarked, "I visited the interior of the Sagrada Família, but I did not know this skyline; it is striking." Pointing to the hidden side of La Pedrera, she asked, "And is that also Gaudí?" Ayén confirmed, "Yes, yes, according to Antoni Gaudí, Catalan architect. Wherever you look, Gaudí's architecture appears in this privileged enclave." Han Kang appeared visibly happy and grateful to be among a smaller group, a contrast to the 700 people who attended her previous event at the Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona (CCCB).
Sant Jordi Tradition and Gaudí Year
Han Kang's presence marked a significant moment for the annual Sant Jordi literary tradition. She is the first Nobel Literature laureate to feature on La Vanguardia's special cover. Sant Jordi, celebrated annually on 23rd April, is Catalonia's patron saint day. On this day, people exchange books and roses, transforming Barcelona's streets into a vibrant open-air book market. This cultural event holds deep significance for residents and tourists alike, fostering a love for literature and local traditions.
The photo shoot, a recurring event for the newspaper, aimed to capture the essence of Barcelona's literary scene against its architectural backdrop. Organisers deliberately chose the Alma Hotel rooftop again to highlight the city's unique skyline. They also celebrated the "Gaudí Year", acknowledging the completion of the Sagrada Família's central towers. This decision ensured a consistent and recognisable visual theme for the publication.
Literary Figures Gather
Other prominent authors present included Carlos Zanón and Fernando Aramburu, who recalled a similar photo session four years prior. That previous event took place on a different rooftop overlooking the sea. David Uclés, Regina Rodríguez Cubas, Maria Stepánova, and Emma Lira also attended. They added a splash of colour to the predominantly dark attire, much to the playful frustration of Photography Chief Editor Xavier Cervera. Cervera reportedly needed more vibrant hues for the composition.
Veteran author Eduardo Mendoza arrived later, playfully holding his book upside down for the camera. He quipped, "It has been many years doing the same thing." Pol Guasch, Màrius Serra, and Eva Baltasar were also part of the gathering. Màrius Serra, dressed in electric blue, assumed the role of an impromptu host, bottle in hand. The event concluded with a celebratory toast, marking a successful assembly of literary talent.
Book Exchanges and Future Translations
Authors exchanged books, a common and cherished practice during Sant Jordi. Mendoza gave Regina Rodríguez Cubas a copy of his latest work, "The Intrigue of the Inconvenient Funeral". She initially hesitated to give him her book, "Crispetes de matinada", joking that he would not read it. Mendoza, a Premio Princesa de Asturias laureate, assured her he would.
Philosopher Francesc Torralba also revealed a significant development. His book, "Anatomy of Hope", recommended by both Catalan President Salvador Illa and Vox leader Ignacio Garriga, will be translated into Korean. This announcement creates a further cultural link, resonating with Han Kang's visit and the broader international interest in Catalan literature and thought.
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Originally published by La Vanguardia Catalonia. Read original article.
