Voces eternas, the latest anthology from the Academia de Comunidad Poética RD, is a captivating blend of diverse voices that invites readers to immerse themselves in the extraordinary microcosm of poetry. Featuring the work of 16 poets, many of whom are publishing for the first time, this collection offers a refreshing and spontaneous exploration of various themes: love, sexuality, loss, the meaning of life, social justice and spirituality.
Bringing together Dominican, Cuban and American poets, Voces eternas (Eternal Voices) is the second installment of the Academia’s “Lánzate” project, which includes workshops on poetic art and text editing. The anthology showcases a contemporary plurality of voices, as noted by renowned poet Leybi Ng in the prologue.
Jaded Gómez, director, and Severina Feliz Zabala, coordinator, highlighted in their opening remarks that poets are not merely solitary souls; they are “wandering clouds, weaving dreams, and sometimes finding themselves behind walls or bringing their voices closer to the riverbank.” They described how poets often face a sky that seems distant, reflecting in mirrors that fail to acknowledge their inner strength. Yet, through poetic expression, they perceive half-open or invisible doors, moments sealed by a silent “No.”
Adrian Rafael Morales González, the editor, praised the challenging yet rewarding task of editing poetry, comparing it to embarking on a journey of discovery. “Immersing myself in the voices and styles of each author was like setting off on a voyage of exploration. Each poem revealed itself as a universe, with each personality shining through in its own unique way,” he said. Morales González expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating that knowing his meticulous work helped the poets’ voices resonate more powerfully has been a deeply satisfying experience. “It has been a privilege to witness their creative development and an honor to share pages with them,” he added.
For many of the poets, being included in Eternal Voices is a dream come true. Massiel Nina Areché sees it as honoring her poetic roots, while Dianaira Polanco Capriles views it as a milestone in her writing journey. Frank García, a seasoned performer, believes the anthology marks a significant moment in Dominican poetry.
Junior Jiménez appreciates the opportunity to learn from poets of diverse backgrounds; Kenndy Gómez Azcona feels a sense of accomplishment, while Olquelin Villar Báez compares the experience to a grasshopper’s first leap. Anita González Sigler sees the anthology as a canvas where cultures and worldviews intertwine. Ramón Morales Tarancón is thrilled to see his silent feelings transformed into written words.
Eternal Voices is a testament to the power of poetry to connect people across cultures and inspire new generations of writers.
Poets featured in Voces eternas: Jaded Gómez, Nathalie / Severina Feliz Zabala / Adrian Rafael Morales González / Anita González Sigler / Dianaira Polanco Capriles / Frank García / Jonathan Estrella / Juan Oleaga González / Junior Jiménez / Karen Josefina Hedeman Lluberes / Kenndy Noelia Gómez Azcona / Malcon Cosmos / Massiel Nina Areché / Olquelin Antonio Villar Báez / Patricia C. Rosado Romero / Ramón Morales Tarancón
