The writer and translator Josep Vallverdú, a towering figure in Catalan literature and the creator of the beloved children’s classic ‘Rovelló‘, passed away this Tuesday at the age of 103 years.
Born in Lleida in 1923, Vallverdú was more than just a writer; he was an essayist, poet, playwright, linguist, and a vital reference point in literature for children and young adults in the Catalan language. His literary journey has profoundly shaped cultural conversations, establishing him as a leading figure for generations of readers.
Legacy of ‘Rovelló’
In the late 1960s, Vallverdú penned his most iconic work, ‘Rovelló‘, which tells the heartwarming story of a dog adopted by a family of farmers. This tale resonated deeply with readers and was later adapted into a widely popular cartoon series, solidifying its place in the hearts of many. With this work, he was awarded the Folch i Torres Prize, marking the beginning of a prolific career that would see him publish more than 300 titles.
A Distinguished Career
Throughout his illustrious career, Vallverdú garnered numerous accolades, including the Honorary Prize for Catalan Letters in 2002 and the Gold Medal of the Generalitat in 2019. His contributions were also acknowledged with the Jaume Fuster Prize from the Association of Writers in the Catalan Language in 2012. Notably, a tribute event was held at the Palau de la Generalitat in 2023, coinciding with his centenary, where he passionately encouraged Catalans to continue speaking their language, which he believed was “not used enough”.
Extensive Output
Vallverdú was a tireless writer, producing approximately 50,000 pages across various genres, including children’s, youth literature, adult fiction, and translations. His influential works for young readers include titles such as ‘Trampa sota les aigües‘ (1965), ‘Rovelló‘ (1969), and ‘L’alcalde Ferrovell‘ (1981). His complete works for young audiences have been compiled into 14 volumes published by La Galera.
Broad Range of Works
In addition to children’s literature, Vallverdú contributed significantly to adult literature, producing essays and novels including ‘Proses de Ponent‘ (1970) and ‘History of Catalan Literature‘ (1978). His fluency in several languages enabled him to translate renowned works by literary giants such as Chesterton, Eliot, and Graham Greene, extending the reach of culture and ideas across linguistic barriers.
Remembering a Maestro
Following Vallverdú’s passing, the president of the Generalitat, Salvador Illa, expressed his condolences, noting that “the death of maestro Josep Vallverdú leaves a void that is difficult to fill.” He emphasized Vallverdú’s immense legacy in Catalan culture, highlighting how his stories and characters, including the unforgettable Rovelló, will continue to inspire new generations of readers.
Cultural Omnium, an organization with which Vallverdú was closely affiliated, also lamented his loss, vowing to uphold his commitment to the Catalan language and celebrate the characters who have enriched the imaginations of countless children.
Josep Vallverdú’s legacy is one of creativity, cultural activism, and an enduring love for literature, ensuring that his stories will continue to be shared and cherished for many years to come.