Gabriel Garcia Marquez, the iconic Colombian author known for his masterpiece One Hundred Years of Solitude, left behind a final novel, Until August, which he had insisted must be destroyed, chronicle-tribune.com reports. However, almost a decade after his death, his sons have defied his wishes and published the book, sparking a debate about artistic integrity and filial duty.
Until August, described as a sketch by critics, offers a glimpse into Marquez’s final literary endeavour, completed while he battled dementia. The 100-page book, though criticised for its flaws, has been deemed a valuable addition to Marquez’s body of work, offering a new perspective on the master of magical realism.
Gonzalo Garcia Marquez, one of Marquez’s sons, defended their decision to publish, stating that his father was unable to judge his work accurately in his final days. He argued that Until August showcased a new side of Marquez and was a unique addition to his repertoire.
PARIS, FRANCE – september 11. Colombian writer Gabriel Garcia Marquez during Portrait Session held on september 11, 1990. Photo by Ulf Andersen / Getty ImagesDespite the mixed reviews, the novel has garnered attention, particularly for its focus on a female protagonist, a departure from Marquez’s previous works.
Until August joins a list of posthumously published works that have stirred controversy, including Franz Kafka’s The Trial and Vladimir Nabokov’s The Original of Laura.
Meanwhile, Netflix is set to adapt Marquez’s classic One Hundred Years of Solitude into a Spanish-language series, adding to the author’s enduring legacy.
The decision to publish Until August against the author’s wishes raises questions about artistic legacy, familial duty and the complexities of posthumous publication.
