Saturday 12 September 2009

12 September (II)

On this day 17 years ago Abimael Guzmán was arrested in Lima, precipitating the collapse of the Shining Path (which is currently undergoing some form of revival). Today, the former guerrilla leader is publishing his memoirs, which were apparently written between 2005 and 2007. According to the Associated Press, "the book also reveals aspects of his childhood like his love for soccer and desire to join the military". El Comercio quotes Guzmán's lawyer as saying that the book contains "self-criticism" but not "repentance".

From what I've heard of Guzmán's previous writing and propensity for long-winded speeches, I have little hope that this will be a literary masterpiece, but naturally it is academically interesting. I have no idea if any Peru-based readers will feel compelled to purchase a copy - perhaps they would object to indirectly funding Guzmán in this way? - but if so, please let me know what it's like.

Peru's Shining Path founder to publish book (AP)
Guzman publica memorias en aniversario de su captura (El Comercio)

No comments: