Introduction
On Tuesday, Paris paid tribute to the late Peruvian writer Mario Vargas Llosa, who passed away on April 13, 2025, at the age of 89. The event highlighted Vargas Llosa’s exceptional relationship with France, where he spent many years and developed his literary career.
Vargas Llosa’s Connection with France
A Nobel laureate in Literature (2010) and one of the most widely read authors in the Spanish language, Vargas Llosa lived in Paris for an extended period, where he honed his writing skills. His notable works include “La ciudad y los perros“.
A Literary Giant Remembered
At the Maison de l’Amérique Latine, Amin Maalouf, the perpetual secretary of the French Academy, described Vargas Llosa as an “exceptional man.” Maalouf praised his courage in advocating for his ideas, stating that while one could criticize his choices and preferences, Vargas Llosa was never accused of dishonesty or deceit.
Personal Insights from His Children
Two of Vargas Llosa’s three children, who also held Spanish nationality, attended the tribute and shared previously untold anecdotes about his final years.
Cherished Memories
His eldest son, Álvaro, recounted that his father’s last few weeks were challenging due to cognitive disorders and weakened physical strength. Despite this, they maintained a daily ritual of visiting places in Lima that featured in his stories to make him feel like a character in his own novels.
During these walks, Vargas Llosa would sometimes start speaking in French without apparent reason. He occasionally conversed with his Venezuelan caregiver or spoke to himself, reminiscing about past experiences.
On his penultimate day, Álvaro read literary texts in various languages to his father, who was particularly moved by French poetry. When reciting “Le bateau ivre” by Arthur Rimbaud, Vargas Llosa recognized the rhythm but not the words.
Inspiring His Children
Vargas Llosa’s younger son, Gonzalo, shared a significant moment when his father asked him to accompany him to visit an orphanage in the Andes. At 20 years old, Gonzalo decided to dedicate himself to working with victims of violence. Vargas Llosa advised him, “You decide; the important thing is to find your passion, no matter what it is.”
Vargas Llosa’s Accomplishments
Among his numerous accolades, Vargas Llosa received the Nobel Prize in Literature, as well as the Cervantes, Rómulo Gallegos, and Prince of Asturias awards.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who was Mario Vargas Llosa? Mario Vargas Llosa was a renowned Peruvian writer, Nobel laureate in Literature (2010), and one of the most widely read authors in the Spanish language.
- Why is he significant? Vargas Llosa’s exceptional literary contributions, including “La ciudad y los perdos” and “Conversación en La Catedral“, have solidified his place as a literary giant. His advocacy for ideas and influence on his children highlight his impact beyond literature.
- What was his relationship with France? Vargas Llosa lived in Paris for many years, where he developed his literary career. He was a member of the French Academy, and his connection with France played a significant role in shaping his life and work.
