Poet and essayist Néstor Francia dies

Néstor Francia, poet, essayist and narrator, died this Tuesday at the age of 77, reported the President of the Republic, Nicolás Maduro.

“Néstor Francia, brother of life and who was my political boss during those years of youth, when we were active in Ruptura, has passed away,” Maduro expressed in publications on his digital networks.

“I am left with the memory of his teaching in the revolutionary struggle and the paths of life that we traveled for a better country. To his family, my heartfelt condolences and a big hug. Honor and Glory Comrade!”, posted the first President on his social network account

Néstor Francia, brother of life and who was my political boss in those years of youth, when we were active in Ruptura, has passed away. I am left with the memory of his teaching in the revolutionary struggle and the paths of life that we traveled for a better country. To his… pic.twitter.com/gOuHSG3l7Q

– Nicolas Maduro (@NicolasMaduro) July 30, 2024

Francia, who was born in Caracas on November 11, 1947, was a poet, essayist and narrator, with a degree in Literature from the Central University of Venezuela. In his long career he published several books of political essays and social research. He was the host of a TV program and together with Mario Silva he innovated on VTV with the program La Hojilla, highlighting his black humor. He was also a radio man

He was one of the leaders of the University Renewal Movement in the 60s, and was also a press columnist who advised the state oil company PDVSA in the communications area.

Among his poetry books are: Colossal Pinworm1978; The broken networks1996; Y The Water Bible1997. Among his essay books: The Simurgh’s Nest1999; Y What does Chávez think?2003. Other books: evil chroniclesnovel, 1990 and Llaguno Bridge: the victims speak, essay and interviews2002.

During his lifetime he received literary recognitions, Fundarte Poetry Prize, 1996; Conac Poetry Prize, in 1997; Award from the National Council of Culture, Special Mention in the Caracas Municipal Literature Award and Special Mention in the José Antonio Ramos Sucre International Literature Biennial.

His poetry stands out for the clarity of the language and the permanent interaction between the intimate world and the outside world. Néstor Francia was also a Constituent.