"Incorporates the most recent output from the fields of literary studies, history, musicology, and anthropology and proposes a truly novel approach to key figures in Cuban literature. The author’s close readings of classic works by Guillén, Ballagas, Carpentier, Camín, and others will reinvigorate the field."—Luis Duno-Gottberg, Rice University
"The most important study of the representation of Afro-Cuban popular culture, and especially traditional carnival celebrations, in the poetry of the cultural and literary movement known as Afrocubanismo."—Jorge Marturano, UCLA
“Traces the ways that Cuban poets dealt with issues of national identity, reflected in their views of Afrocubanismo, often in response to historical changes in public and official opinions on the most visual manifestation of Afro-Cuban culture: carnival.”—Choice
“Successfully plumbs the position of the Afro-Cuban performer and brings into sharp relief the way politicians historically sought to affect all elements of Cuban culture.”—New West Indian Guide
“Underscores the sociopolitical and historical contexts of these poems which have shaped the literary production and message of the Afrocubanismo movement. . . . A tour de force.”—Callaloo
“Uncovers a wealth of literary texts, primarily poems, that chart the impact of las comparsas, Afro-Cuban festival dances, on mainstream Cuban life. . . . Investigates the ways in which the relationship between racial and ethnic divisions, and between castes and classes, created a literary movement full to the brim with emotional and sensational resonances.”—Wasafiri
