Trilce

Trilce is a collection of seventy-seven poems written by Peruvian poet César Vallejo, published in 1922. It is considered a landmark work of avant-garde poetry in the Spanish language. Trilce is characterized by its experimental use of language, neologisms, unconventional grammar, and fragmented syntax. The collection explores themes of personal loss, existential anguish, familial relationships, and the absurdity of human existence.

The title itself, "Trilce," is a neologism, a word invented by Vallejo whose meaning remains open to interpretation. This ambiguity reflects the overall complexity and multi-layered nature of the poems. Critics have suggested potential connections to words like "triste" (sad), "dulce" (sweet), and the number "tres" (three), but no definitive explanation has been universally accepted.

Vallejo wrote Trilce during a difficult period in his life, marked by imprisonment on false charges and the recent death of his mother. These personal experiences heavily influenced the tone and subject matter of the collection. The poems often depict feelings of isolation, despair, and a struggle to find meaning in a seemingly chaotic world.

While initially met with mixed reviews, Trilce is now widely recognized as a seminal work of Latin American poetry and a testament to Vallejo's innovative and influential style. Its challenging and unconventional approach continues to inspire and provoke readers today.