The Poet Slave of Cuba
by Margarita Engle
2009· ISBN 9780307583055
About
Together we belonged
along with countless others
human beasts of burden
to the proud Marquesa . . .
Juan Francisco Manzano has never known any other life. Born into the household of a wealthy slaveowner in Cuba in 1797, he spent his early years by the side of a woman who made him call her Mamá, even though he had a mama of his own. Denied an education, young Juan still showed an exceptional talent for poetry. His verses reflect the beauty of his world, but they also expose its hideous cruelty.
In powerful, haunting verses of her own, Margarita Engle evokes the voice of the Poet Slave of Cuba.
along with countless others
human beasts of burden
to the proud Marquesa . . .
Juan Francisco Manzano has never known any other life. Born into the household of a wealthy slaveowner in Cuba in 1797, he spent his early years by the side of a woman who made him call her Mamá, even though he had a mama of his own. Denied an education, young Juan still showed an exceptional talent for poetry. His verses reflect the beauty of his world, but they also expose its hideous cruelty.
In powerful, haunting verses of her own, Margarita Engle evokes the voice of the Poet Slave of Cuba.
Discuss The Poet Slave of Cuba with other readers
Join or start a book club for The Poet Slave of Cuba on Readfeed. Live chat, shared reading progress, and AI discussion questions — free to get started.
Frequently asked questions
How do I join a book club for The Poet Slave of Cuba?
Sign up free on Readfeed, then browse public clubs or start your own club with The Poet Slave of Cuba as the current read. Invite friends with a share link and discuss together with live chat and AI discussion questions.
Can I discuss The Poet Slave of Cuba with other readers online?
Yes. Readfeed book clubs let you chat live, share progress, and join discussions about The Poet Slave of Cuba with readers worldwide — whether your club is virtual, in-person, or hybrid.
Is Readfeed free?
Yes. Creating an account and joining book clubs is free. Sign up to find readers who love the same books and start discussing today.