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Sasturain's "Tinta china": A 1970s Argentine Detective Story
Juan Sasturain's new novel, "Tinta china," set in 1970s Argentina under the dictatorship, interweaves detective fiction and comics, featuring characters inspired by real individuals from the era, notably omitting Héctor G. Oesterheld, creator of "El Eternauta," to explore themes of death, kidnapping, and artistic repression under state terrorism.
- How does "Tinta china" use the genre of detective fiction and comics to explore the political and cultural landscape of 1970s Argentina?
- Sasturain's "Tinta china" uses the backdrop of Argentina's bloody 1970s dictatorship to explore themes of death, kidnapping, and the role of artists under state terrorism. The narrative weaves together the lives of cartoonists, screenwriters, and editors, drawing on real-life figures and experiences. This novel, therefore, serves as a reflection of a dark period in Argentine history and a tribute to artists who suffered under its oppression.
- What is the significance of Juan Sasturain's new novel, "Tinta china," in relation to Argentina's history and current political climate?
- Juan Sasturain, a renowned Argentine writer, journalist, and cartoonist, has released a new novel, "Tinta china," set during the 1970s dictatorship. The novel blends his love for detective fiction and comics, featuring characters based on real individuals from the era. It notably omits Héctor G. Oesterheld, creator of the internationally acclaimed comic "El Eternauta.
- What are the long-term implications of neglecting or forgetting figures like Héctor G. Oesterheld and the cultural impact of works like "El Eternauta" in Argentina's historical and cultural memory?
- Sasturain's critical stance against Argentina's current ultra-right government, evident in his recent speech at the Buenos Aires Book Fair, underscores the novel's political relevance. By highlighting the absence of Oesterheld—a politically active artist who disappeared during the dictatorship—the novel implicitly connects past authoritarianism with contemporary socio-political concerns. This connection invites reflection on cyclical patterns of oppression and resistance in Argentine history.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing centers heavily around Sasturain's personal views and his analysis of Oesterheld's work. While this provides insight into the author's perspective, it may overshadow a broader examination of Argentinan cultural identity and the complexities of the political and literary landscape. The emphasis on the author's criticism of the current political climate, although relevant, could also be viewed as a framing bias, potentially shaping the reader's perception of the interview as primarily a political commentary rather than a literary discussion.
Language Bias
While the language used is generally neutral, terms like "sinvergüenza" (shameless) and "jodida" (screwed up) reflect the author's strong feelings and could be perceived as loaded. However, these terms are used within the context of a personal reflection, and their use does not seem intended to manipulate the reader's perception.
Bias by Omission
The interview focuses heavily on the author's opinions and the work of Héctor G. Oesterheld, potentially omitting other relevant perspectives on Argentinan literature and cultural dependence. While the interview mentions the current political climate, a deeper analysis of the cultural policies under the current administration is absent. The absence of discussion regarding the diversity of opinions within Argentina regarding Oesterheld's work and its current resurgence could also be considered an omission.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article discusses Argentina under the government of Javier Milei, criticizing the ultra-right model of society and the lack of morality in the current political climate. The rise of ultra-right ideologies and the associated societal issues pose a direct threat to peace, justice, and strong institutions. The author's concerns about a lack of empathy and the normalization of injustice highlight the fragility of these institutions.