My Spanish Life.

So – I want a list of Spanish texts worth reading. Fiction – non-fiction, graphic novels, poetry. I’ve read a few books on Spain. Writing a thesis on Spanish anarchism helped in that regard, but there’s much I haven’t read. So if anyone cares to add to this list of interesting books relating to Spain, then please do.

Gerald Brenan – the Spanish Labyrinth – it’s a while since I read this, not owning a copy myself. If I recall, I found it to be one of the better socio-political histories of twentieth century and earlier Spain. He seemed to realise that you couldn’t separate the political development of Spain from the social development of its society. But I’m not going to delve into an analysis of this – it’s too long since I read it.

George Orwell – Homage to Catalonia – perfect Orwell. Inspiring images of the Civil War, even if he perhaps give to much credence to the POUM.

Antony Beevor - the Spanish Civil War – it’s just been re-released, 25 years after first publication. Once again, a long time since I read it but a fascinating ‘big picture’ history of the Civil War.

Driving over Lemons – by the first drummer in Genesis – a really entertaining story of a man who moves to Andalucia to take over an old farm. It’s an enjoyable read. And hey, he used to be in Genesis. In high school.

** how could I forget?! Franz Borkenau – The Spanish Cockpit – a fantastic foray into the Spanish Civil War. On par, if not better, than Orwell’s Homage to Catalonia. This is a fascinating read. Apologies to one certain library, which allowed a copy to fall into my possession, possibly against their will.

But I know there’s a heap of stuff I haven’t read that I want to, nay, need to read at some point in the near future. So to start the list of must read Spanish authors/subjects (that I am yet to read/should have read)…

Hemingway – For Whom the Bell Tolls

Lorca – anything (I can’t think of titles of his works)

Gabriel Garcia Marquez – okay, not really Spanish but close enough.

 I can’t think of anything else right now. I apologise for the shittiness of these posts. Writing online isn’t as easy as it sounds – it may even require some sort of planning. Please add to this list, and jog my memory.