Famous Ecuadorian Poets

Matilde Hidalgo Navarro de Procel was an Ecuadorian physician, poet, and activist. She made significant contributions to women's rights and gender equality in Ecuador. Hidalgo was a trailblazer as the first woman to exercise the right to vote in Latin America and the first woman to receive a Doctorate in Medicine. Throughout her career, she advocated for the recognition of women's rights and played a vital role in the history of Ecuador as one of the most important women in the country.

Francisco Tobar Garcia was a versatile Ecuadorian literary figure known for his contributions as a poet, playwright, short story writer, essayist, journalist, literary critic, diplomat, and university professor. He obtained a Ph.D. in Literature and taught at various prestigious institutions globally. Garcia served as a diplomat in several countries and directed the publishing division of the House of Ecuadorian Culture. He made significant contributions to the literary world through his poetry, plays, novels, and short stories before passing away from lung cancer in 1997.

Jorge Carrera Andrade, an Ecuadorian poet, historian, author, and diplomat, was a prominent figure during the 20th century. His significant contributions to Latin American literature earned him recognition alongside esteemed poets such as Jorge Luis Borges, Vicente Huidobro, Gabriela Mistral, Pablo Neruda, Octavio Paz, and Cesar Vallejo. Through his works, Carrera Andrade left a lasting impact on the literary landscape, solidifying his position as one of the most important poets of his time. His legacy continues to inspire and influence aspiring writers and poets worldwide.

Joaquín Gallegos Lara was a prominent Ecuadorian writer known for his contributions to social realism in literature. Throughout his career, he excelled as a novelist, short story writer, poet, and essayist, capturing the essence of Ecuadorian society through his works. His writing delved into the struggles and aspirations of the common people, shedding light on social issues and advocating for change. Gallegos Lara's impactful storytelling and insightful commentary on societal dynamics left a lasting legacy in Ecuadorian literature.

Rosa Borja de Ycaza was a prolific and influential figure in Ecuadorian literature and activism. Through her work as a writer, essayist, dramatist, sociologist, poet, novelist, feminist, and activist, she made significant contributions to various fields. Her writings often focused on social issues, women's rights, and gender equality, reflecting her deep commitment to advocating for marginalized communities. Based in Guayaquil, she used her platform to challenge societal norms and promote progressive ideas, leaving a lasting impact on Ecuadorian society.

Luz Elisa Borja Martínez was a talented Ecuadorian poet, pianist, painter, and sculptor. A multidisciplinary artist since childhood, she studied and excelled in poetry, music, painting, and sculpture. She left behind an extensive body of written work, which was posthumously published in two books. Her poem "Quiero Llorar" inspired the Ecuadorian pasillo "Lamparilla". Borja Martínez achieved success and recognition in Ecuador and internationally, earning the nickname "La Alondra del Chimborazo". In music, she appreciated and interpreted the works of Liszt, Schubert, and Beethoven.

Dolores Veintimilla de Galindo was an Ecuadorian poet known for her works published posthumously. Despite facing criticism for expressing controversial opinions in her writing, she engaged with authors and pursued literature after her husband left. She wrote impactful works like "Necrologia," critiquing societal issues and advocating for indigenous rights. Veintimilla's notable prose includes pieces like "Fantasía" and "Recuerdos," where she reflects on her pain and struggles. Her poetry, characterized by rhythmic verse, conveys her emotions and experiences, touching on themes of yearning, suffering, and disillusionment.

Karina Galvez is a prominent Ecuadorian American poet known for her powerful and evocative works that often explore themes of identity, culture, and social issues. With a career spanning several decades, she has published numerous critically acclaimed poetry collections that have garnered international recognition. Galvez is also a respected literary figure, having participated in various poetry readings, conferences, and workshops around the world. Her contributions to the literary landscape have cemented her reputation as a talented and influential poet in both Ecuador and the United States.

Adalberto Ortiz was a renowned novelist, poet, and diplomat from Ecuador, known for his significant contributions to literature. His works such as the novel "Juyungo," poetry collection "Earth, Sound and Drum," and short story collection "Entundada" highlighted the elements of afro-American culture. Ortiz's writing focused on the identity of afro-Americans in Latin-American society, addressing themes of social freedom, oppression, and exploitation. Through his characters, he personalized political themes, particularly exploring class differences. His prose was praised for its beauty and elegance, earning him the prestigious Eugenio Espejo National Prize in 1995.

Cristina Eugenia Reyes Hidalgo is a multifaceted professional with a background in poetry, law, and politics. She serves as a member of the National Assembly for the Social Christian Party and is actively involved in the Legislative Administration Council. Additionally, she holds the prestigious position of President of the Andean Parliament. With a strong presence in Ecuadorian politics, she is currently running for the presidency in the upcoming 2025 general election, showcasing her dedication to public service and leadership in shaping the country's future.

Jorge Enrique Adoum was a prominent Ecuadorian writer, poet, politician, and diplomat known for his significant contributions to Latin American poetry. His work garnered numerous accolades, including the prestigious Casa de las Américas Prize in Cuba, a highly regarded recognition in Latin American literature. Despite being acclaimed by Nobel laureate Pablo Neruda as the finest poet of his generation in Latin America, Adoum's literary accomplishments remained largely undiscovered in the English-speaking realm.