Legendary Dominican poet, Mateo Morrison, reissued by Río de Oro Editores

Santo Domingo.- Renowned Dominican poet and cultural figure, Mateo Morrison, the honored guest at the 26th Santo Domingo International Book Fair, has had his iconic work, Aniversario del dolor (Anniversary of Pain), reissued by Río de Oro Editores. The book fair, dedicated to Morrison and the Washington Heights community, will run from November 7-17 at Plaza de la Cultura.

Originally published half a century ago, Anniversary of Pain has been a cornerstone of Caribbean literature. This commemorative edition, part of Río de Oro’s Cierva Blanca Collection, marks the 38th anniversary of the book’s first English translation. The re-release is a testament to Morrison’s enduring influence on Dominican and international literature.

A special launch event is scheduled for November 11th at 4:00 PM in the Mateo Morrison Pavilion. The event will feature the translator (Mariela Shaw), the prologuist (Rosemary Mealy), as well as the author and publisher.

“Thirty-eight years later, with the reissue of this book, we join the tribute being paid to this great poet,” said Eugenio Fortunato, a key figure in the initial English translation. “Despite the world’s many changes, Morrison’s poetry remains as relevant as ever.”

Río de Oro Editores’ President, Rafael J. Rodríguez, expressed his honor in adding Morrison to the publisher’s roster. “We are excited to be part of this international celebration of Morrison’s life and work,” Rodríguez stated.

Anniversary of Pain is a poignant exploration of Caribbean identity and social struggles. The book’s themes of love, loss and resistance continue to resonate with readers worldwide.

Honoring the literary and cultural contributions of Mateo Morrison

Mateo Morrison, a versatile figure in the Dominican literary and cultural scene, is a renowned poet and essayist and a qualified lawyer. His significant contributions to Dominican culture have earned him accolades such as the Salomé Ureña de Henríquez distinction from the former Department of Education and recognition from the Chamber of Deputies. His literary works have been celebrated at numerous national and international book fairs.

Morrison’s active involvement in cultural institutions is evident. He dedicated 22 years to leading the Cultural Department at the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo (UASD), where he spearheaded important cultural initiatives like the Pablo Neruda International Writers’ Gathering. Additionally, he founded the César Vallejo Literary Workshop and served in various leadership roles within the Presidential Council for Culture and the Department of Culture.

His literary works, including the acclaimed Aniversario del dolor and others, have been translated into eight languages, showcasing his international appeal. Morrison’s multifaceted career as a writer, academic and cultural leader has solidified his place as a prominent figure in Dominican intellectual life.

Río de Oro Editores, a rising star in Dominican publishing

Río de Oro Editores S.R.L. is a dynamic publishing house based in the Dominican Republic. Founded in March 2022 by writer and editor Rafael J. Rodríguez, the company has quickly established itself as a leading publisher of high-quality literature. It offers a comprehensive range of book-related services, including editing, design, printing, and distribution.

The publisher’s diverse catalog encompasses a wide range of genres. To date, they have published over 50 high-quality poetic, literary, and scientific works, organized into seven thematic collections: Logos (narrative), Carajitos (children’s books), Cierva Blanca (poetry), Magíster (education), Rostros (biographies), Credo (religious-spiritual themes), Avante (personal development), and Demos (social and political topics).