Francia Márquez, the vice-presidential candidate for Colombia's center-left coalition Pacto Histórico, discusses her political principles and ideals in an interview. She has faced death threats and racist attacks but remains committed to her environmental activism, recognized by awards such as the National Human Rights Defense Award and the Goldman Environmental Prize. Márquez emphasizes the importance of environmental defense, women's rights, and social justice. Senator Alexander López provides context on Colombia's societal anger due to a history of violence and social leader assassinations. Márquez, along with journalists from Mexico and the United States, hopes for a peaceful and democratic election, advocating for a change in the exploitative economic model and a life of dignity and freedom for Colombians.

Delphine de Vigan's novel 'The Gratitudes' explores the human condition through the story of Michka, an elderly woman suffering from aphasia, and her relationship with Marie, who saved her from an alcoholic mother as a child. The novel, published by Anagrama in 2021 and translated by Pablo Martín, delves into themes of aging, the loss of independence, and the importance of human connection. It contrasts Michka's compassionate nature with the aggressive behavior of Lucile, a character from de Vigan's previous work, and reflects on the inevitability of death and the dignity of facing it.

Debanhi Escobar has been missing for over a week, last seen on a dangerous highway in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. Her disappearance adds to the alarming number of women who have vanished in the state and across the country in 2022. The article reflects on the broader issue of disappearances in Mexico, criticizing the government's failure to address the crisis and highlighting the pain of families searching for their loved ones. The author, Irma Gallo, contemplates the dire situation and the personal dilemma of whether to migrate for a better life, while empathizing with the mothers of the missing.

The article reflects on the themes of grief and loss as explored by author Joan Didion in her works 'The Year of Magical Thinking' and 'Blue Nights', following the deaths of her husband and daughter. It draws parallels between Didion's personal experiences and the collective mourning for the victims of the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the emotional challenges faced by those who have lost loved ones. The piece also discusses the role of writing as a form of solace and the stark reality of the pandemic's death toll in Mexico, emphasizing the difficulty of comprehending the full impact of such widespread loss.

Irma Gallo interviews Rosa Beltrán, one of the most important Mexican writers who is also a member of the Mexican Academy of Language.

María Luisa Bombal, a pioneering Chilean writer, defied societal norms by openly discussing female sexual desire in her works, notably in her novel 'La amortajada'. The article explores Bombal's passionate life, her tumultuous relationships, and her literary achievements, highlighting her boldness in blending realism with the supernatural. Despite facing personal and societal challenges, Bombal's fervent love and experiences fueled her creative output, leaving a lasting impact on literature.

Alondra de la Parra, a Mexican conductor, initiated 'La Orquesta Imposible' project to support women and children affected by domestic violence during the COVID-19 pandemic. The virtual orchestra, comprising 30 musicians from 14 countries, performed Arturo Márquez's 'Danzón No. 2'. The project, which premiered virtually on August 25, 2020, raised funds through donations for Save The Children México and Fondo Semillas. The event was broadcasted live on YouTube by the Latin Grammy channel and on orquestaimposible.com. De la Parra, who has a rich family background in the arts, is dedicated to her country and to making a difference through music.

Mónica Ojeda's novels 'Mandíbula' and 'Nefando', published by Almadía, explore extreme experiences and liminal states through characters such as Annelise and Fernanda, two high-class teenagers attending an Opus Dei school who engage in a strange cult and sadomasochistic exploration. 'Nefando' is set in Barcelona and follows six millennial roommates, including the Terán siblings who were abused as children and seek revenge through a cult video game featuring their abuse. Ojeda's work delves into themes of incest, pedophilia, and child pornography, with the deep web playing a significant role in the narrative. Her writing is noted for its poetic and musical quality, despite the abject nature of the events described.

Emmanuel Carrère, a French writer and journalist, is known for his mastery in non-fiction, particularly highlighted by his work 'El adversario' which explores the life of murderer Jean-Claude Romand. Carrère's storytelling prowess is also evident in 'El reino' and his compilation of journalistic texts 'Conviene tener un sitio adonde ir.' His career achievements include receiving the FIL Literature Award in Romance Languages at the Guadalajara International Book Fair. Carrère's personal journey, from his conversion to Catholicism to his disenchantment, is interwoven with his professional narrative, showcasing his evolution as a writer and journalist.