A Barcelona-born writer was honored with the 2023 National Essay Prize, celebrated this week with a recognition that comes with a prize of 30,000 euros awarded by the Ministry of Culture and Sports for the work titled Like the air we breathe: A sense of culture. The award underscores the author’s contribution to the national conversation on how culture shapes identity and collective life. This prize, one of the country’s most prestigious literary recognitions, spotlights essays that illuminate culture as a living force that informs everyday practice and civic engagement. — Ministry of Culture and Sports
The jury, chaired by a high-ranking official from the Ministry, highlighted the work for its exemplary style and creative vision. It was praised for addressing the broad concept and integrative nature of culture, showing how culture helps define both who we are and what we do as a society. The jury stressed that culture is not a niche interest but a vital, shared phenomenon that gives meaning to social life and daily actions. — Ministry of Culture and Sports
In its assessment, the panel also noted that the book stands against the notion of culture as elitist. It presents a clear, fresh, and direct argument that culture is a fundamental resource, a basic need that deserves investment. The message, articulated with elegant simplicity, asserts that society cannot afford to live without culture as a sustaining force. — Ministry of Culture and Sports
According to the Acantilado publishing house, which released the volume, the work interprets culture as an inherently political activity. It is inseparable from the common good of the place and our engagement with the world. More than anything, it is described as the first necessity to face the challenges of existence, a lens through which ordinary life gains purpose and direction. — Ministry of Culture and Sports