Dariela Aquique’s Diary

The Overzealous Types in Cuba

To be faithful to one’s ideals or principles is noble, just as having absolute conviction in what one defends and why is commendable. The problem begins with people become overzealous.

Theater of the Absurd in Cuba

The “theater of the absurd” is one mode of creating dramatized works. In Cuba it is associated with Virgilio Piñera, the island’s father par excellence of dramatic works that were the precursor of this genre.

On Double Standards

A few days ago I read the commentary “The Anonymous Complaint” by Alfredo Fernandez. Among other things, it made me reflect on the double standards that proliferate in our country these days as practices of daily life.

Our Own Personal Cock Fights

Prior to the victory of the Revolution, cock fights were the favorite form of entertainment in rural areas as well as in many marginal urban neighborhoods across the country.

The Return to Faith

I’m not trying to eulogize mystic beliefs; I’m simply referring to these in our country right now. We Cubans are of a tradition rooted in religion.

Habit is Stronger

Our younger generations were really educated in an indifference to work. They grew up unaware that the things people obtain are the result of their effort…that they don’t merely deserve them.

Cuba’s Irreverent Kids

I was on the bus when the carefree expression of a nine-year-old boy old caught the attention of those of us near him and his mother. Immediately laughter broke out as if everyone were celebrating the wit of this child, who was wearing his Pioneer uniform.

‘Ache’ for Taxes

“To go through sainting, to receive the warriors or the hand of Orula, to dispossess oneself, to remove a wuenba, to throw the conches, and Ache!” – these are some common expressions among our people.