José Martí & Carmen
The apostle torn between homeland and love
The poet and hero of Cuban independence José Martí and Carmen Zayas Bazán, a marriage strained to breaking by Martí's total devotion to the cause of Cuba, for which he died in battle.
01Why it matters
It embodies the dilemma between private love and duty to the homeland; Martí is Cuba's great patriot and poet.
02The conflict
The revolutionary politics that overrode family life.
03The iconic moment
The verses to his son Ismaelillo, written from afar.
04What survived
"Versos sencillos," the basis of the song "Guantanamera."
05Frequently asked questions
Why is the story of José Martí & Carmen famous?
It embodies the dilemma between private love and duty to the homeland; Martí is Cuba's great patriot and poet.
How does the story of José Martí & Carmen end?
The verses to his son Ismaelillo, written from afar. "Versos sencillos," the basis of the song "Guantanamera."
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