Julián Delgado Lopera: Blending Fashion, Fiction, and Queer History in 'Pretend You're Dead
A unique and captivating event unfolded at The Lab in San Francisco as Julián Delgado Lopera took the stage during his book tour stop. The author, donning a striking outfit sourced from Colombian designer Adriana Kanal, read from his latest novel, "Pretend You're Dead and I Carry You," pulled from a purse with two bald heads. Delgado Lopera's storytelling is deeply rooted in his physical presence, emphasizing the embodiment of his narratives.
The evening featured engaging conversations with Honey Mahogany, readings by Ingrid Rojas Contreras and Maryam Rostami, and captivating drag performances by Grace Towers and Kochina Rude. Delgado Lopera's multidimensional storytelling approach, blending fashion, fiction, oral histories, archival research, and queer history, reflects his diverse creative background and experiences.
Delgado Lopera's exploration of queer history in his sophomore novel, "Pretend You're Dead," delves into the rich tapestry of Colombia's trans history, drawing inspiration from his immersive research experiences in the country. The novel weaves a complex narrative involving a father, daughter, and trans mother, reflecting on dreams deferred and the complexities of identity in 1990s Colombia.
Through his narrative, Delgado Lopera challenges conventional storytelling norms, infusing his work with puro Spanglish and evoking a sense of linguistic acrobatics that captivates readers. His refusal to conform to traditional happy endings adds a poignant depth to his storytelling, inviting readers to explore the supernatural and speculative elements woven into his narratives.
Delgado Lopera's unique storytelling style, influenced by the likes of Pedro Lemebel and Camila Sosa Villada, offers a fresh perspective on trans and Colombian narratives, embracing the unconventional and celebrating the richness of diverse experiences. His work resonates with a sense of authenticity and sazón, inviting readers to immerse themselves in a world where boundaries are blurred, and storytelling transcends traditional norms.