Agustín Acosta (poet)

Agustín Acosta (November 12, 1886 – January 19, 1979) was a Cuban poet, lawyer, and politician. He is considered one of the most important poets of the first half of the 20th century in Cuba, known for his politically charged verse and his contributions to Cuban nationalism.

Acosta was born in Matanzas, Cuba. He studied law at the University of Havana. His poetry often reflected his socialist ideals and his concern for the plight of the working class and the rural population. He was a critic of social injustice and governmental corruption, themes that permeate his work.

Among his most notable works are "Las Novias de Barbazul" (Bluebeard's Brides) (1913), a symbolist collection, and "La Zafra" (The Sugar Harvest) (1926), a long narrative poem that vividly depicts the harsh realities of life in the Cuban sugar cane fields. "La Zafra" is considered his masterpiece and a significant work in Cuban literature, exploring themes of exploitation, poverty, and the struggle for social justice.

Acosta was also involved in Cuban politics, serving as a member of the Cuban Congress. He used his political platform to advocate for social reform and improved living conditions for the Cuban people.

His work is characterized by its powerful imagery, social consciousness, and lyrical beauty. He received the National Prize for Literature in 1955. Agustín Acosta’s legacy lies in his contribution to Cuban national identity and his unwavering commitment to social justice through his poetry and political activism.