Breaking News: Silvia Grijalba’s ‘Those Eternal Nights’ Uncovers the Legends of Costa del Sol
Silvia Grijalba (Madrid, 1967), the Director of the Cervantes de Alburquerque Institute (United States), has recently published a captivating novel, “Those eternal nights,” which takes readers on a journey through the golden years of the Costa del Sol. This literary piece has been a labor of love for Grijalba, inspired by her personal experiences and the stories she heard growing up on the sun-kissed shores of Spain.
From Musical Journalist to Novelist
Before dedicating herself to cultural management and literature, Silvia Grijalba was a renowned musical journalist. She transitioned from her reporter days to penning award-winning novels like “I learned with you,” which won the Fernando Lara novel award in 2011. Her latest work, “Those eternal nights,” published by Editions B, focuses on recreating the vibrant and glamorous world of the Costa del Sol during the 1960s and 70s, with a particular emphasis on the empowering journey of its protagonist, Maite.
The Making of ‘Those Eternal Nights’
“Those eternal nights” has been a project Grijalba has been contemplating for a while. Inspired by her mother’s tales and memories of a more carefree era where she could wear pants and bikinis, Grijalba sought to bring to life the transformation of women who found freedom and reinvention on the Costa del Sol. Her research was significantly aided by the magazine HELLO!, which provided invaluable insights into figures like Gunilla and Ira of Fusenberg. These women, who were pivotal in reshaping the social landscape of Marbella, became inspirations for the character of Maite, an entrepreneur who became a pillar of Marbella’s nightlife.
The Evolution of the Costa del Sol
The novel covers the formative years from 1963 to 1983, highlighting the evolution of two distinct areas: Torremolinos, which was initially famous for its eclectic mix of hippies, playboys, and aristocrats, and Marbella, which later became a playground for cinema stars and renowned aristocrats like Sean Connery. Marbella particularly drew figures such as Gunilla and Jaime de Mora, enhancing its exclusive and luxurious reputation.
A Tribute to Pioneering Women
Pilar Banús, wife of José Banús, who played a critical role in developing Puerto Banús, is another key figure in the narrative. Grijalba pays homage to these women who, despite operating in the shadow of their powerful husbands, were influential in their own right. Through Maite’s life, Grijalba explores both the challenge and the triumphs faced by these pioneering women.
The End of an Era
Grijalba’s novel concludes just as the era of exclusivity and authenticity begins to give way to mass urbanism and vulgarity. This shift marked the decline of the Costa del Sol’s “special and delicate” atmosphere, which saw the influx of millionaires and the prevalence of “golds and mega yachts.” Her choice to focus on this period underscores the charm and elegance that characterized the Costa del Sol during its heyday.
The Everlasting Impact of ‘HELLO! ‘
The magazine HELLO! played a significant role in shaping the global image of the glamorous Marbella nights. It highlighted the charm and mystery of notable figures like Gunilla and Ira of Fusenberg, capturing their allure in photographs that have become iconic. Grijalba paid tribute to this era by incorporating elements of that enigmatic allure into her novel.
The book serves as both a nostalgic trip down memory lane and an insightful exploration into a time when the Costa del Sol was the epitome of glamour and freedom. Through the narrative of Maite’s journey, Grijalba draws attention to the pioneering women whose contributions are often overshadowed by their more famous husbands.
Silvia Grijalba’s “Those eternal nights” promises to be a must-read for those interested in the rich history of Spain’s Costa del Sol and the women who shaped its legend.
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