“Abandona cuidados lo que ha ardido ya nada tiene que temer del tiempo” These words etched into this plaque resonate with the life of Ángel González. This isn’t just a simple plaque. It’s a window into the life of one of Spain’s most significant poets. It marks the house where Ángel González lived. A place where his words flowed from his pen a place where poetry came to life.
Ángel González born in Oviedo faced hardship from a young age. His father died when he was a toddler. Tragedy struck again when a brother was murdered in 1936. His life was marked by loss and difficulty. Yet he persevered. He studied law then journalism. He moved to Madrid to pursue his literary ambitions.
He worked in Civil Administration but his true passion was poetry. In Barcelona he met other prominent poets like Carlos Barral and José Agustín Goytisolo. His first book “Aspero mundo” won critical acclaim. He returned to Madrid working in public administration. He connected with other poets of his generation.
Ángel’s poetic journey blossomed. His poems “Grado elemental” won the Antonio Machado Prize. He received many other awards. The Prince of Asturias Award the Salerno Poetry Prize and the Reina Sofía Ibero-American Poetry Prize. He became a member of the Royal Spanish Academy. His work explored themes of freedom solidarity and the human condition. He taught at universities in America and Spain.
His words on this plaque are from his poem “Inmortalidad de la nada” or “Immortality of Nothing”. The lines speak to a powerful truth. The things we lose in life the pain and the heartache. They are ultimately consumed by time. Yet love transcends time. It persists. It remains untouched by the passage of years.
This plaque serves as a memorial. It’s more than a marker of a residence. It represents a legacy. The enduring words of Ángel González a voice of a generation. It speaks of resilience hope and the enduring power of the human spirit. Take a moment to reflect on the life and work of this remarkable poet. His influence continues to inspire readers and poets alike. Let his words echo in your heart as you continue your journey through Madrid.