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Unfortunately, some works are not always faithfully translated. So, if you’re fluent in Spanish, we can only recommend that you buy the original version to fully appreciate the author’s work.
Presentation of the work
Original title (ES) : Los Ejercitos
The Armies is a Colombian novel published in 2003, which plunges the reader into the daily violence and fear of rural Colombia. The story follows the daily life of an old man, the father of a family and former schoolteacher, confronted with the absurdity of civil war and the threats of armed groups. Through her eyes, the novel explores the destructive effects of violence on individuals and communities, but also the small gestures of humanity and resistance that survive in spite of it all. The story alternates between cruel realism and moments of poetic introspection, making for a poignant yet thoughtful read. Rosero uses a sober, direct style that makes the situations extremely palpable, and makes the reader feel the constant tension hanging over these Colombian villages, transforming the novel into a mirror of the social and psychological traumas of the time.
Welcoming the press and public
On its release, Les Armées won widespread critical acclaim for its ability to deal with serious subjects with great literary sensitivity. The specialist media have highlighted the way Rosero depicts the psychological impact of violence on ordinary characters, underlining the strength of his sober, realistic narrative. The work has also been noted for its ability to evoke contemporary Colombia without falling into sensationalism or caricature, earning it several literary awards, including the prestigious Prix de la littérature ibéro-américaine. As far as readers are concerned, the novel has found a particular resonance with those interested in Colombian history and society, but also with those who appreciate human and psychological stories. His popularity has spread far and wide, making Rosero a recognized figure in contemporary Latin American literature.
The author
Evelio Rosero, born in Bogotá in 1958, is a Colombian writer and journalist renowned for his novels and short stories, which often deal with social violence and Colombia’s collective memory. After studying philosophy, he turned to writing, publishing stories that combine realism and poetry. In addition to Les Armées, his work includes several critically acclaimed novels, including La Frontera invisible, and he has received numerous national and international awards. Rosero is appreciated for his ability to create deeply human characters, while exploring complex historical and social contexts. Her sober yet evocative writing allows her to treat weighty themes with subtlety, while keeping the reader attentive to the psychological evolution of her characters. Today, he is considered one of the major voices of contemporary Colombian literature.
