Symphony, Rhythm, and Identity in The Kingdom of this World

Abstract

Among other things, the Cuban author Alejo Carpentier is well known for his book, Music in Cuba, and for his symphonically structured work, The Chase. With that in mind, this essay takes the position that his earlier novel The Kingdom of This World is structured as a symphony. This study elaborates on why this novel is a symphony, both structurally and thematically, and how Carpentier chose the Vodou drums and chants to create rhythm. By doing this, the author creates a musical duality that mirrors his belief about Latin American identity. Identity for Carpentier means that we are forever between two worlds, such as those alluded to by the symphony (Europe) and first age rhythms (First Age cultures). The only “real” escape from this continuum is if we have the power to transform ourselves like Ti Noël at the end of the novel.