Cuban essayist and literary critic Cira Romero Rodríguez passes away in Havana at the age of 79

The passing of the intellectual has deeply affected the Cuban cultural scene, where colleagues and students emphasize her invaluable legacy in literature and research. Her work will continue to inspire future generations.

Cira Romero RodríguezPhoto © Radio Habana Cuba

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Emotional messages of condolences have flooded social media following the passing of the prominent essayist, researcher, professor, and literary critic Cira Romero Rodríguez, who passed away in Havana on Sunday night at the age of 79.

According to a note published on Facebook by the Cuban Institute of the Book, Romero was born on January 10, 1946, in Santa Clara and graduated in Literature from the Central University of Las Villas.

Facebook Capture / Cuban Institute of the Book

Her tireless academic work and deep love for Cuban literature made her an indispensable figure in the cultural sphere of the island, being a member of the Union of Writers and Artists of Cuba (UNEAC) and the Cuban Academy of the Language.

Since 1971, she worked as a researcher at the José Antonio Portuondo Valdor Institute of Literature and Linguistics and taught for more than 20 years at the Faculty of Arts and Letters at the University of Havana, leaving an indelible mark on generations of students and colleagues.

His literary legacy is reflected in fundamental works such as "Moral and Society in the Novels of Carlos Loveira," "The Full Hours of a Cuban Writer of Galician Origin: Lino Novás Calvo," and "Fragments from the Interior. Lino Novás Calvo: His Voice Among Other Voices."

In addition, he prepared more than 10 compilations and conducted critical editions of 19th-century Cuban novels, such as Una pascua en San Marcos and El rancheador.

For his dedication to Cuban culture, he received numerous accolades, including the José María Chacón y Calvo Award, the title of Maestro de Juventudes awarded by the Hermanos Saíz Association, and the distinctions For National Culture and Carlos J. Finlay, the statement emphasized.

His departure has left a deep void in the Cuban literary community, but his work and passion for literature will continue to inspire future generations.

By family decision, her body will be cremated, and in the coming days, the date and location where friends, colleagues, students, and cultural institutions can pay their respects will be announced.

The Ministry of Culture and the Union of Writers and Artists of Cuba have expressed their condolences to family and loved ones, joining in the tribute to those who, both inside and outside the island, highlight his invaluable contribution to Cuban culture.

In the comments section, several close individuals expressed their grief, including the filmmaker Georgina Aguiar: “It’s very sad to know that the professor is no longer with us. I remember I interviewed her recently on the 152nd anniversary of Tula's death, Gertrudis Gómez de Avellaneda. A wonderful afternoon with the professor and her insights. What a shame to learn of her passing this morning!”

"Sad news. I always thought you would never leave us; you were so strong in your fight for life. You will always be remembered for your work. Shine until eternity, dear Cira," emphasized Neyda Izquierdo.

The lawyer René López Benítez said: "A great loss for Cuban culture. Literature loses a distinguished researcher. My condolences."

The Cuban television and radio union recently mourned the passing of Yamila Suárez Núñez, a renowned writer of soap operas, documentaries, and radio dramas.

The channel Cubavisión, through its official Facebook profile, expressed its sorrow for the loss and highlighted the indelible mark left on Cuban culture.

Recently, Paquito Cruz Terry passed away, a renowned producer and artistic representative who left an indelible mark on Cuban music.

Cruz trabajó con importantes agrupaciones como Manolito Simonet y su Trabuco y fue el impulsor de proyectos musicales clave en la isla.

His death moved the artistic community, with musicians like Maykel Blanco and the National Center for Popular Music mourning his passing, highlighting his professionalism and passion for Cuban culture.

In the realm of theater and television, in January, the news of the passing of actor Lázaro Guillermo Gómez was revealed, whose career included television dramas and participation in theater groups.

Her death sparked a heated debate on social media due to the precarious conditions in which she lived her last days, marked by health issues and institutional abandonment. Her case provoked outrage within the artistic community, which denounced the lack of support for actors in vulnerable situations.

In November of the previous year, the passing of actress, singer, and filmmaker Inima Fuentes was confirmed, a talented artist who lived in Spain and battled cancer in her final years.

Fuentes had a distinguished career in Cuban theater and was a faculty member at the Higher Institute of Art, in addition to venturing into film production. His legacy is reflected in theatrical productions and in the short film Marrón, which premiered shortly before his passing.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Legacy of Cira Romero Rodríguez

Who was Cira Romero Rodríguez and what was her contribution to Cuban literature?

Cira Romero Rodríguez was a prominent essayist, researcher, professor, and literary critic from Cuba, born in Santa Clara in 1946. She graduated in Literature from the Central University of Las Villas and dedicated her life to research and teaching in Cuban literature, becoming an essential reference in the cultural sphere of the island. Her work includes studies and critical editions of Cuban novels, significantly contributing to the understanding and appreciation of national literature.

What were some of the most important works of Cira Romero Rodríguez?

Among the most important works of Cira Romero Rodríguez are "Morality and Society in the Novels of Carlos Loveira," "The Complete Hours of a Cuban Writer of Galician Origin: Lino Novás Calvo" and "Fragments from Within. Lino Novás Calvo: His Voice Among Other Voices." Additionally, she produced critical editions of 19th-century Cuban novels, such as "A Easter in San Marcos" and "The Rancher," demonstrating her deep knowledge and love for Cuban literature.

What recognition did Cira Romero Rodríguez receive for her contribution to Cuban culture?

Cira Romero Rodríguez received numerous accolades for her dedication to Cuban culture, including the José María Chacón y Calvo Award, the title of Maestro de Juventudes awarded by the Hermanos Saíz Association, and the distinctions for National Culture and Carlos J. Finlay. These awards reflect the impact and significance of her work in the literary and cultural sphere of Cuba.

How has the Cuban literary community reacted to his passing?

The Cuban literary community has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Cira Romero Rodríguez. Emotional messages of condolence have flooded social media, highlighting her invaluable contribution to Cuban culture and her impact on generations of students and colleagues. Her departure has left a profound void, but her legacy continues to inspire future generations.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.

CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.