The mask of rupture: About Tres tristes tigres by Guillermo Cabrera Infante

Abstract

The aesthetics of rupture that according to Octavio Paz is one of the most prominent paradigms of modernity is discussed with regard to its power of fascination and seduction. We propose that the novel Tres tristes tigres by the Cuban writer Guillermo Cabrera Infante is an outstanding example of an aesthetics of rupture in Latin America. Considering its most remarkable elements such as humor and orality, we try to question the historical and aesthetic hypotheses of what can be considered an extreme writing practice. Finally, and with regard to the concept of seduction, we criticize the traditional manner of comprehending this concept as an evident will to disrupt. Although it can be considered as a mask that hides in a very particular way every text desire: to attract.