The Caribbean region of Colombia is a land where reality intertwines with the extraordinary, a place that seems to dance on the border of the possible and the fantastical. This unique narrative fabric, known as magical realism, has not only shaped the cultural identity of the region but also offers a powerful lens through which to understand and address the pressing issue of climate resilience.

 

The banks of the Magdalena River and the surrounding area of Santa Cruz de Mompox are facing severe challenges due to climate change. Historically, this region has thrived on the abundance of the river, which supports both agriculture and fishing. However, increasing floods and a diminishing fish population are threatening the livelihoods of the communities that depend on these resources.

 

Frequent and intense flooding has become a recurring nightmare for the residents of Santa Cruz de Mompox. These floods disrupt daily life, damage homes, and devastate crops. The river, once a source of life and prosperity, now brings uncertainty and hardship. Additionally, the declining fish population, driven by changing water temperatures and pollution, poses a serious threat to local food security and the economy.

 

As these environmental changes unfold, resilience has become paramount. Communities are adapting their practices and harnessing traditional knowledge to mitigate the effects of climate change. In this context, the narrative of magical realism, which finds wonder and strength in the ordinary, becomes a vital tool for inspiring and illustrating resilience.

 

Magical realism, a genre immortalized by Nobel laureate Gabriel García Márquez, imbues the everyday with a sense of wonder and possibility. In the face of climate change, this narrative style becomes more than just a literary device; it is a reflection of the spirit of the Caribbean people. Their resilience, creativity, and adaptability are akin to the magical elements that pervade their stories. 

 

The traditional practice of minga, for example, shows a communal work effort that embodies the spirit of cooperation and mutual aid. In the face of environmental challenges, mingas are organized to rebuild homes, restore mangroves, and clean up after storms. These acts of community solidarity, where the collective effort turns the tide against adversity, are reminiscent of the magical realism where communities band together to overcome the impossible.

 

Marco Vernaschi’ series MACONDO stands out as an extraordinary example of storytelling, capturing the essence of magical realism and climate resilience in Colombia. Vernaschi’s work draws its name from the fictional town in García Márquez’s “One Hundred Years of Solitude.” Through his work, Vernaschi documents the raw beauty and profound challenges of the Caribbean region, telling the stories of communities that, much like the characters in Márquez’s novels, navigate the delicate balance between struggle and enchantment.