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Israel Centeno will discuss his recently translated novel The Conspiracy with World Affairs Council Director Steve Sokol. Israel is the author of poetry, short stories, and ten novels and is regarded as one of the most important Venezuelan literary figures of the past fifty years. Through his narratives he conveys a sense of the many shortcomings of a society that feeds on grandiose historical myths that lead to poverty and violence. His fictions also accommodate his own experience as an exile. The Conspiracy was published in 2002, shortly after the alleged coup against Hugo Chávez. The novel was interpreted by Chávez and his revolutionary party as an affront to their myth of origin. They launched a campaign against Israel Centeno that escalated from harassment and threats to violence, ultimately forcing him into exile.

Space Gallery

This event is part of the Pittsburgh Humanities Festival. Learn more here.