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Inspiring Conversations with Jose Garay Boszeta of Dulzorada Press

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Today we’d like to introduce you to Jose Garay Boszeta.

Jose Garay Boszeta

Hi Jose, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Certainly! My journey into the world of literature and publishing is one that intertwines personal passion with professional pursuit, ultimately leading me to establish Dulzorada Press. It all began during my time at the National University of San Marcos in Lima, Peru, where I pursued studies in Economics and later shifted my focus to Philosophy. Despite the rigors of academic life, my love for literature remained steadfast, nurtured by the rich literary traditions of my homeland. The vibrant cultural atmosphere of San Marcos, with its diverse array of voices and perspectives, fueled my curiosity and sparked a lifelong commitment to exploring the written word. 

After completing my studies, I found myself drawn to the United States in pursuit of professional opportunities. Initially driven by economic considerations, I soon realized that my true passion lay in the realm of literature and translation. Despite the demands of my work, I never abandoned my habit of reading, finding solace and inspiration in the pages of books amidst the hustle and bustle of life in a new country. My journey took a decisive turn when I discovered a profound interest in the literature of the Latin American avant-garde. Inspired by the works of writers such as José María Eguren, Martín Adán, and César Vallejo, I became captivated by the idea of bringing these voices to a broader audience, particularly those who were unfamiliar with the richness of Latin American literary traditions. 

The idea for Dulzorada Press began to take shape as I immersed myself in the world of literary translation. Recognizing the need to bridge the gap between Spanish-language literature and English-speaking audiences, I embarked on a mission to establish a publishing house dedicated to the translation and promotion of Latin American literature and poetry. With the support of my brother Miguel, who shares my passion for the arts, Dulzorada Press became a reality. Named after a word from Vallejo’s “Trilce,” symbolizing the creative potential inherent in language, our publishing house became a platform for experimentation, exploration, and cultural exchange. 

Our first publication, Symbolics by José María Eguren, marked the beginning of our journey, setting the stage for future endeavors. As both translator and publisher, I poured my heart and soul into each project, striving to preserve the unique voices and nuances of the original texts while making them accessible to English-speaking readers. The release of “The Cardboard House” by Martín Adán further solidified Dulzorada Press’s dedication to excellence and innovation in literary translation. Drawing on my passion for the avant-garde and our team’s commitment to quality, each translation represents a creative journey, meticulously navigating the intricacies of language and meaning. All of our publications showcase our ongoing dedication to exploring and sharing the rich tapestry of Latin American literature. With works like Magda Portal’s “Hope and the Sea’ and Raquel Jodorowsky “Ajy Tojen” already enriching our catalog, we continue our mission of cultural enrichment through translation at Dulzorada Press. 

Today, Dulzorada Press stands as a testament to our collective vision and dedication. With each new publication, we seek to expand the boundaries of literary exploration, fostering dialogue and understanding across cultures and languages. As we look to the future, our commitment to promoting Latin American literature remains unwavering, driven by a passion for storytelling and a belief in the power of words to inspire, enlighten, and unite. 

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Our journey at Dulzorada Press has been marked by both triumphs and challenges. While our passion for literary translation drives us forward, we have to continually navigate the complexities of the publishing industry. Establishing ourselves as a new player in the field, especially with our focus on translating lesser-known Latin American authors, requires steadfast determination and tireless effort. Additionally, translating and publishing works that contain intricate linguistic and cultural nuances always presents us with a range of challenges. Ensuring accuracy and fidelity to the original texts while making them accessible to English-speaking audiences demands meticulous attention to detail and extensive research. 

Furthermore, securing funding and resources for our projects, particularly as a small independent press, proves to be another obstacle. However, our unwavering commitment to our mission and the support of our dedicated team and community are instrumental in overcoming these challenges. 

Overall, while the road may not always be smooth, each obstacle serves as a learning opportunity, strengthening our resolve and shaping our journey toward achieving our vision of promoting diverse voices in literature. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next, you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Dulzorada Press stands as a beacon of innovation and cultural enrichment in the realm of literary translation. Our mission is rooted in a deep commitment to showcasing the vibrant tapestry of Latin American literature to English-speaking audiences worldwide. Specializing in bringing to light lesser-known works and voices from Latin America, we offer readers a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the rich diversity of the region’s literary landscape. What sets us apart is our unwavering dedication to excellence in translation, coupled with a keen eye for avant-garde and experimental works. We pride ourselves on meticulously navigating the intricacies of language and meaning, ensuring that each translated work retains its original essence and authenticity while resonating with English-speaking audiences. 

At Dulzorada Press, we take great pride in our ability to foster cultural understanding and appreciation through our publications. Our offerings extend beyond mere translations; they serve as bridges between cultures, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the beauty and complexity of Latin American literature. 

We want our readers to know that when they choose a book from Dulzorada Press, they are embarking on a journey of exploration and discovery. With a diverse array of works on our roster and a steadfast commitment to quality and authenticity, Dulzorada Press remains a trusted curator of Latin American literary treasures. 

What makes you happy?
What brings me the greatest joy is witnessing the transformative power of literature through our efforts at Dulzorada Press. Our efforts to bring works like “Birds of Fire” by Jesus Balmori to a wider audience exemplify the profound impact of storytelling on cultural understanding and empathy. “Birds of Fire” is a testament to resilience, written in secrecy during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines in the 1940s. The narrative, preserved miraculously despite the turmoil of war, offers a poignant testimony of courage in the face of cruelty. Witnessing readers engage with this previously hidden narrative, exploring themes of survival, heroism, and tragedy, fills me with immense satisfaction. 

This novel, penned by Balmori in Spanish during the darkest years of World War II, serves as a testimony to the collective struggles and triumphs of the Filipino people. Its recent rediscovery and publication represent a historic event, breathing new life into the memory of the Filipino people and their literary tradition. Seeing readers connect with this profound story, grappling with its themes of hardship, resilience, and hope, reaffirms the importance of our work at Dulzorada Press. Moreover, “Birds of Fire” holds significance beyond its literary merit. For US military veterans and students of war history, it provides invaluable insights into the human cost of conflict and the indomitable spirit that emerges amidst adversity. By delving into the intricacies of life under occupation, readers gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of war and its profound impact on individuals and societies. This aspect of the novel makes it not only a poignant work of literature but also a valuable resource for those seeking to explore the human dimensions of historical events, fostering dialogue and reflection among diverse audiences. 

I’m moved by the realization that through our efforts, we are not only preserving and sharing important literary works but also fostering connections between individuals and cultures across borders and generations. The collaborative process involved in translating and publishing such a significant work, from the dedication of our team to the meticulous attention to detail, brings me a profound sense of fulfillment. Ultimately, it’s the belief that we are contributing to a broader dialogue and appreciation of diverse voices and stories that brings me genuine happiness. 

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Image Credits
Margaret Randall
National Museum of World Cultures

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