Octavio Paz

Octavio Paz (1914-1998), born in Mexico City, was a prominent Mexican poet and essayist and is regarded as one of the most influential writers of the 20th century. He grew up in a poor family, but had access to a library because of his grandfather. He published his first book of poetry, Luna Silvestre, when he was 19. His works cover a wide range of themes such as Mexican history/culture, time, love, philosophy, and politics.

Most famous works include:

• “El Laberinto de la Soledad” (The Labyrinth of Solitude), a collection of essays depicting the journey to discovering the identity of Mexico.

• “Piedra de Sol” (Sunstone) which revolves around the cycle of time

Awards:

• Nobel Prize in Literature (1990)

• Cervantes Prize (1981)

• Mexican National Prize for Arts and Sciences (1972)

• Brecht Prize (1977)

• The Golden Wreath of the Struga Poetry Evenings (1986)