Spanish Writer Juan del Val Criticizes Nationalism, Declares Love for Spain

Spain — Ekhbary News Agency

Juan del Val, a prominent Spanish writer and journalist, recently ignited a debate on national identity and regionalisms, stating his personal aversion to labels like Catalan, Basque, or Andalusian. His remarks, shared across social media, underscore a broader sentiment often surfacing during major sporting events like the World Cup, where national pride and local distinctions frequently intertwine.

Del Val's Stance on Nationalism

Del Val articulated a clear position, asserting that such regional affiliations "have always bored him," extending this sentiment even to the "Spanish" label itself. He finds the notion of superiority based on birthplace inherently "absurd." "I am from Madrid and Spanish because my mother gave birth to me on Doctor Esquerdo Street, corner of Goya," he reflected, adding, "I have the same merit as someone born in New Orleans, Azpeitia, Cairo, or Ciudad Real: none." This perspective challenges the conventional understanding of identity rooted purely in geography.

An Unwavering Love for Spain

Despite his critical view on nationalistic labels, Del Val expressed a profound affection for Spain, a country he describes as his "life." His travels, he claims, only deepen this appreciation, even as he admires other global cities like Paris, Buenos Aires, and London. He views Spain as a "marvelous territory," acknowledging its complexities—its "miseries and truth, its greatness and its politicians," its diverse cultural fabric encompassing flamenco and rock, and its societal spectrum from "fascists and reds" to "bullfighters and vegans." He concluded with an emphatic "Long live Spain!" as the nation gears up for the World Cup, a testament to his undeniable patriotism, for what it's worth.