Gabriel Garcia Marquez's Magical-Realistic Writing: An Exploration

Categories: A very old man with enormous wings

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Gabriel Garcia Marquez's "A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings" is a short story that artfully blends elements of magic with the mundane realities of life. In this essay, we delve into Marquez's unique style and the influences that have shaped his distinctive narrative approach. While the interview with Marquez may not directly mention the story, it provides invaluable insights into the techniques and philosophies that underpin his storytelling. We will examine Marquez's journalistic background, his use of vivid imagery, the role of his hometown in his writing, and the significance of the first paragraph in "A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings.

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Marquez's Magical-Realistic Style

Marquez's magical-realistic style, which seamlessly melds the fantastical with the real, finds its roots in his background as a journalist. Marquez himself acknowledges that his "true profession is that of a journalist" (131). This journalistic foundation keeps his writing firmly tethered to reality, ensuring that his narratives maintain a close relationship with the tangible world (137).

Marquez emphasizes the importance of maintaining this connection with reality, highlighting the risk of losing touch with it when attempting to transpose it into fiction.

Journalism, according to Marquez, serves as a safeguard against such detachment. He even shares a "journalistic trick (138)" to enhance credibility in storytelling: the art of providing precise details. For instance, stating that there are "four hundred and twenty-five elephants in the sky" is more convincing than merely asserting the presence of elephants in the sky.

These principles of journalism are evident in "A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings," lending the story a sense of authenticity and believability, despite its fantastical elements.

Vivid Imagery and Visual Inspiration

Marquez's storytelling is heavily influenced by his use of vivid imagery, a trait he developed from his early experiences as a cartoonist. He notes that in the genesis of all his works, there exists a potent image or visual element, often akin to a photograph (143).

Marquez's return to his hometown played a pivotal role in shaping his writing style. He perceived the transformation of everyday occurrences in his town into potential elements of literature. This grounding in his birthplace infused his stories with realism and vibrant imagery.

Furthermore, Marquez credits his grandmother's style of storytelling, characterized by its matter-of-fact delivery of supernatural and fantastic events, as a major influence. Her ability to narrate extraordinary events with complete naturalness left an indelible mark on Marquez's narrative approach (138).

These influences combine to infuse Marquez's stories with authenticity, color, and a vividness that captivates readers.

The Role of the First Paragraph

In Marquez's narrative style, the first paragraph plays a pivotal role in setting the tone for the entire story. "A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings" adheres to this principle, as it opens with a reference to Marquez's fascination with plagues and an abundance of crabs after three days of rain. The paragraph immediately establishes a sense of melancholy and foreboding, casting a somber shadow over the narrative.

Marquez's meticulous attention to detail is evident as he describes the world's transformation into a somber state following the rain. This detailed imagery invokes a sense of realism, drawing readers into the story's atmospheric setting.

Interestingly, Marquez draws a parallel between his observations of Mexicans leaving Europe on Wednesdays and the story's portrayal of the world's sadness on a specific day. This connection underscores the interplay between Marquez's personal experiences and his storytelling, demonstrating how elements of reality infuse his narratives.

The story's fantastical elements are introduced in the first paragraph with the appearance of the old man with enormous wings, setting the stage for the magical-realistic journey that unfolds.

Conclusion

Gabriel Garcia Marquez's magical-realistic writing is a testament to his journalistic background, his skillful use of imagery, and the rich tapestry of influences that shape his narratives. "A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings" exemplifies his ability to seamlessly blend the magical with the real, creating stories that are both captivating and believable.

While the interview with Marquez may not directly address the story, it serves as a valuable window into his literary philosophy and techniques. It sheds light on how he navigates the delicate balance between reality and fantasy, creating narratives that resonate with readers.

If given the opportunity to pose another question to Gabriel Garcia Marquez, I would inquire about the concept of "intellectual writing" and its relationship with politics in his works. As a Marxist, how did his ideological perspective influence the unconventional representation of the angel in "A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings"? Further insights into these aspects of his writing would provide a deeper understanding of Marquez's literary alchemy.

In conclusion, Marquez's storytelling is a testament to the power of blending the ordinary with the extraordinary, the real with the surreal. His narrative style continues to captivate readers and inspire a new generation of writers.