The 2018 Guadalajara Book Fair: A Celebration of Literature and an Unexpected Political Earthquake

In the vibrant cultural tapestry of Mexico, few events hold as much weight as the annual Guadalajara International Book Fair (FIL). This colossal gathering, renowned for its breathtaking exhibitions, thought-provoking panels, and a dizzying array of authors from across the globe, has been a cornerstone of Mexican literary life since 1987. However, the year 2018 etched itself indelibly into FIL’s history not just for its impressive lineup but for an unforeseen political tempest that erupted amidst the celebrations of literature.

This political earthquake was triggered by the presence of Vicente Fox Quesada, a former president of Mexico who held office from 2000 to 2006. His invitation to participate in the FIL sparked a fierce debate, dividing Mexican society along ideological lines.

The controversy surrounding Fox Quesada’s participation stemmed from his recent political pronouncements and affiliations. After leaving office, he had become increasingly critical of the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), the party that had dominated Mexican politics for decades and which he himself had defeated in 2000, ending their 71-year rule.

His vocal opposition to the PRI, coupled with his alignment with conservative groups and his public criticisms of the then-ruling leftist party, Morena, led many to perceive his presence at the FIL as a calculated political move aimed at undermining the government.

The ensuing backlash was swift and intense. Leftist intellectuals and writers denounced Fox Quesada’s invitation, accusing the FIL organizers of politicizing a traditionally apolitical event. They argued that his inclusion would detract from the literary focus of the fair and serve only to promote a partisan agenda.

Adding fuel to the fire, Fox Quesada himself appeared to relish the controversy, using his platform at the FIL to deliver pointed critiques of the current government’s policies. His remarks sparked heated exchanges with audience members and further inflamed tensions.

The 2018 Guadalajara Book Fair, intended as a celebration of the written word, became an unexpected battleground for Mexican political ideologies. The controversy surrounding Vicente Fox Quesada’s presence underscored the deep divisions within Mexican society and highlighted the complex relationship between politics and culture. While some lauded the FIL organizers for providing a platform for diverse viewpoints, others criticized them for allowing the event to be hijacked by partisan interests.

The consequences of this political storm were far-reaching.

It fueled an already heated political climate in Mexico, further polarizing public opinion. The debate surrounding Fox Quesada’s participation also raised questions about the role of cultural institutions in a democracy and the balance between freedom of expression and the need to maintain apolitical spaces.

The 2018 FIL ultimately served as a powerful reminder that even seemingly apolitical events can become entangled in the complexities of national politics. It underscored the importance of fostering respectful dialogue and finding common ground amidst differing viewpoints, especially in a society as politically charged as Mexico’s. And while future editions of the FIL may not experience such dramatic political upheavals, the legacy of 2018 will undoubtedly linger, prompting ongoing reflection on the intersection of literature, politics, and culture in contemporary Mexico.

This event, however tumultuous, provided a unique window into the evolving political landscape of Mexico, reminding us that even amidst the celebration of words, the currents of power and ideology are never far beneath the surface.