Evoking Madrid

Just finished reading a novel by Ben Lerner about Madrid and the inescapable craziness that besets visitors to the city. I was pulled into the world of Adán, as he is called by his Spanish friends-- an America poet on a prestigious scholarship. The evocation of the literary life are humorous as well as  sad. References that reveals the pathetic nature of life and the constant energies that one must marshall to survive.


I knew I was hooked when I read A´s reaction to Van der Weyden´s The Descent from the Cross, one of my favorite painting in the Prado. The visit to the Prado is followed by countless travels thru the urban landscape of Madrid, Granada, and Barcelona. A is challenged by Spain, language, culture, and adult life. The novel develops with insight and humanity. One reviewer stated: "I suspect Adam had it right all along — there must always be a striving for fluency and transparency, but what keeps life interesting is that it will never be achieved."

I love it!

I believe I will send a copy to la noruega in the hopes that she enjoys the delight of discovery and the misery of unfulfilled love.

Discovering Delic

While in Madrid this November, I decided to explore Delic, a café near la Plaza de la Paja. Neat little place with funky decor. Full of sabor madrileño y el estilo que gusta. I went one day with la noruega where we ordered some specialty coffees and empanadas. Another day I went sin acompañante to relax and settle for a night of work. I order a capucchino and a "besito". Oh my! ¡qué experiencia tan sabrosa! Two tiny meringues glued by caramel.

The Plaza de la Paja is a unique location, surrounded by tons of monuments and some very wonderful eating establishments, including "Viva La Vida", a vegetarian place with style. The whole area lies in the La Latina area. Energy and life abounds.

My piso was located in this area, not far from the Plaza de Cascorro. A comfortable place, nicely equipped with washer, quality kitchen. The street seems typical urban Madrid, but safe. Hopefully, I will return and enjoy the sights and sounds of that area.