Reinaldo Arenas

Reinaldo Arenas was a Cuban poet, novelist, and playwright known for his opposition to Fidel Castro's government and his subsequent struggles as a gay writer in Cuba. He was born on July 16, 1943, and died on December 7, 1990. Arenas' work often explores themes of political and sexual freedom, and he is celebrated for novels such as 'Before Night Falls' (Antes que anochezca), which was later adapted into a film. After being persecuted for his sexuality and political views, he fled to the United States during the Mariel boatlift in 1980. Arenas continued to write until his death from AIDS-related complications.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Before Night Falls

    Cover of 'Before Night Falls' by Reinaldo Arenas

    "Before Night Falls" is an autobiographical work that chronicles the life of a young Cuban man growing up during the political turmoil of the Cuban Revolution. The protagonist, a rebellious writer and poet, grapples with his sexual identity in a society that is deeply homophobic. Despite facing persecution, imprisonment, and exile, he remains defiant and committed to his art and personal freedom. His story provides a candid and deeply personal perspective on the harsh realities of life under Fidel Castro's regime.

  2. 2. The Ill Fated Peregrinations Of Fray Servando

    Cover of 'The Ill Fated Peregrinations Of Fray Servando' by Reinaldo Arenas

    The book is a fictionalized account of the life of Fray Servando Teresa de Mier, a real-life Dominican friar from the 18th century. It follows his numerous escapes from colonial authorities across Latin America and Spain after he delivered a controversial sermon in Mexico City. The narrative, infused with magical realism, portrays Fray Servando's adventures and misfortunes as he becomes a symbol of freedom and resistance against oppressive regimes. His journey is marked by a series of bizarre and fantastical encounters, reflecting the author's critique of totalitarianism and exploration of the themes of liberty, identity, and the absurdity of political persecution.