Spanish Poets of the Generation of '27: Themes, Style, and Key Figures

The Generation of '27: A Literary Movement

The Generation of '27 was a group of Spanish poets united by friendship and shared literary tastes. They benefited from the experience of modern art and the avant-garde, revolutionizing Spanish poetry while building upon tradition.

Origins and Influences

The commemoration of the tercentenary of Góngora in 1927 served as a catalyst for the group's formation. These poets, all with strong academic backgrounds, began under the guidance of Juan Ramón Jiménez and Ortega y Gasset.

Impact of the Spanish Civil War

The Civil War led to exile for many, often without return, and in some cases, to death, as happened to Lorca.

Key Themes in Their Work

The main themes explored by these poets include man's relationship with love, the universe, fate, and death. Three general themes stand out:

• The City: Representing progress and the future, but often treated negatively.
• Nature: Love of nature, sometimes as an environment, other times integrated into the poetic experience.
• Love: The full love of the couple, often expressed in a liberated way.

They were also committed to life and art, with a socio-political commitment that spanned before, during, and after the war, with variations among the authors.

Stylistic Characteristics

Stylistically, this generation 'spoke through images,' renewing poetic language. They cultivated the image and the visionary image, relating objects to evoke emotions. They combined traditional metrical forms with free verse and rhythm to give prominence to words in the poem.

Leading Poets and Their Works

Jorge Guillén

His work is admired for its unity and is structured as an organic whole. His overall title is Our Air, consisting of Song, Cry, and Final Tribute.

Gerardo Diego

His work shows the influence of Góngora. Notable works include The Ballad of the Bride and Human Verses.

Vicente Aleixandre

He received the Nobel Prize in 1977. His most important works are Swords Like Lips, Destruction or Love, and Shadow of Paradise.

Federico García Lorca

He presented a fusion of tradition and the avant-garde. He used popular lyrics, singing Andalusian metric forms of classical poetry to channel issues of frustration and the tragic destiny of man. Highlights include Gypsy Ballads and Poet in New York.

Rafael Alberti

His work shows neogongorinos and avant-garde influences, as well as social and neopopularismo: Sailor on Land, Chalk and Singing.