**Tiempo de Literatura: A Literary Haven in Mexicali**
Under the expert coordination of writers Elma Correa and Antonio León, the International Writers’ Meeting “Tiempo de Literatura” took place once again, garnering the support of the Universidad Autónoma de Baja California (UABC). This year, over 40 authors from across Mexico, the United States, and Latin America congregated at the Mexicali campus from October 24 to October 26, marking the event’s 13th edition.
Founded in 2008 by the Baja Californian writer Elma Correa, this literary gathering has become a staple in the Mexican literary calendar. The UABC, with the Cultural Extension and Science Dissemination Coordination led by Vanessa Verdugo González, has been the steadfast host since 2019, offering a platform for literary exchange and cultural enrichment.
Elma Correa and Antonio León expressed, “We’ve positioned ourselves within the country’s landscape of literary events and book fairs as an intriguing destination for writers and the community at large. Our existence hinges upon the generous participation of both groups—the authors and the audience.”
Mexicali is emerging as a new literary destination in the northwest, especially after the cancellation of significant literary events in the region, like the “Horas de junio” in Hermosillo (1995-2018) and the Tijuana-San Diego Poetry Festival (2010-2019).
During the event, Cristian Gómez Olivares paid tribute to the late Mexican poet Ángel Manuel Ortuño Sahagún, while América Gutiérrez presented an insightful discussion on the role of literary agents in the publishing ecosystem. The event also featured new book launches, literary readings, and engaging panel discussions.
**Highlights from Tiempo de Literatura**
One of the most captivating panels, “Dominar al Centauro: Cuatro Ensayistas Mexicanas,” featured four notable Mexican essayists: Jumko Ogata, Lola Horner, Gabriela Conde, and América Gutiérrez. The session delved into the subjective nature of personal essays and the challenges of expressing personal narratives in a traditionally objective genre.
Social media’s role as a platform for argumentative writing also sparked debate. Jumko Ogata highlighted their transformative potential, while Gina Cebey contended that they are not conducive to nuanced discussion, contrasting them with the deeper nature of essays.
Another engaging session focused on “Las Contemporáneas,” a collection of works by authors Gabriela Conde, Ana Fuente, Libia Brenda, and Elma Correa, presented by the Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla. The authors explored the refinement and magic inherent in crafting short stories.
**Editorial Debuts and Literary Conversations**
Attendees had the opportunity to purchase and explore a variety of new and unique literary works by participating authors. Some notable presentations included “El paralelo etíope” by Diego Olavarría and “Nosotras” by Suzette Celaya Aguilar.
The event also celebrated young poets and writers, offering a venue for up-and-coming talent to share their work. Renowned writers alongside novices, such as Ángel Manuel Nuño and Enrique Martínez Apodaca, graced the stage, cementing Mexicali’s growing reputation as a cradle for new literary voices.
**Secondary Article: The Evolution of Literary Gatherings in Mexicali**
The success of Tiempo de Literatura underscores Mexicali’s burgeoning role as a cultural and literary hub. The annual event fills a gap left by the discontinuation of crucial literary festivals in the area and offers a unique platform for diverse voices.
According to recent reports, literary gatherings in Mexico are increasingly viewed as community-centric affairs, emphasizing dialogue and sharing over commerce. Events like Tiempo de Literatura are pivotal in fostering a more inclusive literary community, allowing more intimate interactions between writers and readers.
For future editions, organizers hope to expand their reach and continue offering workshops and writing clinics for aspiring authors. This commitment to nurturing talent and expanding the literary conversation reflects broader trends in Mexicali and throughout Mexico, as communities recognize the power of storytelling to connect and inspire.
As Mexicali continues to develop as a literary destination, Tiempo de Literatura’s role in shaping the region’s cultural identity remains vital, setting a precedent for how literary festivals can evolve to meet the changing needs of both creators and audiences.