Avant-Garde Movements in Catalan Literature and Art

Avant-gardism emerged during the two major wars of the twentieth century: the First World War (1914-1918) and the Second World War (1939-1945). In a period marked by economic, military and political upheaval, many artists of the past turned to new forms of expression. Avant-gardism sought to define the spirit of rupture and experimentation in the world of art.

Artistic movements of this period proposed a radical break with cultural values, rejecting the desire for gold and the traditional constraints of the past. Artists tried to find new ways of expression, and the vanguard was a revolt against established conventions.

Characteristics of the Avant-Garde

• The frontiers of painting, literature and genres were broken down.
• Movements such as Cubism, Futurism and Surrealism emerged.
• Writers and artists pursued individual and moderate experimentation.

The Catalan Avant-Garde: First Stage (1916-1924)

The first stage followed Cubism and Futurism. Joan Salvat-Papasseit was the most prominent writer of this stage, and his work stood out in the avant-garde movement.

Second Phase (1925-1938)

The second phase was influenced by Surrealism. A group of artists formed around the magazine Les Arts, including JV Foix and Salvador Dalí.

Catalan Literature from the 1920s to the 1970s

Catalan literature between the 1920s and the 1970s was shaped by several influences and styles.

First Stage (until 1939)

Catalan theatre and poetry of this period were elegant, comfortable and civilized. Works dealt with family relationships, love and sentimental themes, and aimed to inculcate civilized attitudes. Josep Maria de Sagarra was a central figure, and his poetry combined sentimentalism, popular rural or maritime settings, sentimental conflicts and humour.

Second Stage (during Francoism, 1975)

Catalan theatre of this period was critical and drew on classics, inspired by advanced ideas. Its characters were ridiculous and its tone combined humour and irony. Works such as Hunger (1937) and Pygmalion (1957) reflected this approach.

Poetry of the period was expressive and inspired by tragedy. It criticised injustice and dictatorship, and remained committed to reality. Notable works include Primary History (1948) and Antigone (1939).

Joan Brossa

Joan Brossa was innovative and original. His works addressed detention, the lack of social justice and the absence of freedoms. His play Kirikibrí (1945) is a key example.

Josep Pla: Literature as Memory

Josep Pla believed that literature is simply an effort against forgetfulness. His writing opens up personal memories, observes, analyses and explains reality. His characters are unique, and he made frequent use of adjectives and comparisons.

Notable works include The Grey Notebook (1966), a biographical work, as well as Homenots (chronicles and reports), Trip to Catalonia, The Narrow Street and Farmers, which combine description with personal opinion.