A Poet (2025) Movie Script
- Is it a new medicine?
- I don't know.
- Stronger?
- The same.
- What did they say?
- Nothing. Everything is fine.
Why did they change it then?
- Why won't you tell me the truth?
- I just told you.
- Is something wrong with you?
- No.
10,000 pesos?
Mom, you only think about money.
Give me 20.
No.
Don't take my car.
Wash it and park it!
Look at this letter from Deutsche Bank,
the largest German bank.
It is signed by its director,
Paul Aschreiner.
It says that this week,
the President of the United States
will sign the decree
that will release the funds.
- Give me my money back.
- Trust me.
- You've been saying that for a year.
- It's a long-term investment.
What do I need?
Bank account certificate
and a copy of your ID,
so they can transfer the money to you.
- I don't have a bank account.
- And?
- Javier, give me my money back.
- Poet, are you stupid?
It's a golden opportunity.
You have to know how to sniff out deals
when they present themselves.
What you invested is nothing
compared to what you will receive.
Listen.
My contact tells me the bonds
are being redeemed.
With the approval
of the Zimbabwean government.
You invested in bonds
worth ten million dollars.
I'll make you a millionaire,
you little bastard. I'm telling you.
You'll be able to write your poems
on a beautiful farm
with a river.
- I just need to use your account!
- I won't give you anything.
I'm not asking you for anything.
They are going to transfer it to me.
- I said no.
- Why are you doing this to me, Mom?
Mom?
Mom?
Mom?
Mom.
What's wrong?
- I need to sit down.
- What is it?
- Is something wrong?
- It will pass.
Tell me the truth.
You're annoying me.
Me?
I am old.
I won't always be here.
Do you want to die?
I will help you.
And I will go with you, if you want.
What? Go with me?
Have you been drinking?
scar Restrepo, poet
born in Santuario in 1968
Historian from
the University of Antioquia.
Great admirer and connoisseur
of Jos Asuncin Silva,
to whom he dedicates
some of his poems.
In 1992, his book Los Desusos
received the first prize
in the 5th National Poetry Contest
organized by the Pepe Sixto Aguinaga
Cultural Center.
Polita
Thank you very much. Good evening.
First of all,
thank you very much, Alonso,
for inviting me to share my poetry
in this beautiful sanctuary of words
where every poet is a little god,
and each of you,
by interpreting the poet,
is another little god.
scar Restrepo would define himself
as an eternal, perpetual dreamer.
A seeker of chimeras
through words.
I started reading at 12,
and then writing verses.
At 15, already,
I felt like, I believed I was a poet.
That was my only aspiration.
To be an unhappy and vain poet.
I say "unhappy"
because suffering has been
the raw material of my poetry.
Those who have read my books
can attest to it.
I identify with Wilde
when he says...
"Where there is sorrow
there is holy ground."
But I must admit that we,
poets, are hyperbolic.
And this hyperbole,
this constant exaggeration
of our suffering,
we take it to the third
or even fourth degree.
One of my readers
once told me...
Poet...
"How can you write
a poem so beautiful, yet so sad?"
- I quoted Ernesto Sabato to him.
- scar!
Which poem are you going to read?
No poet has achieved
the virtuosity of Jos Asuncin Silva
in this fucking country.
His scansion, his rhythm, his musicality.
In a hundred years. None.
- Don't tell me he was better than...
- Who?
The one who won the prize,
with the mustache.
- Garca Mrquez?
- Yes, the one who wrote The Alchemist.
- The Alchemist is by Paulo Coelho.
- No.
Garca Mrquez wrote
One Hundred Years of Solitude.
Yes. Garca Mrquez, the best.
Garca Mrquez was
thirsty for recognition.
Jos Asuncin Silva, on the other hand,
never wrote for recognition.
- And nobody knows him.
- Nobody?
Oh man... Look at that.
Doesn't that seem important to you?
- Garca Mrquez on the 50 bill.
- Overrated!
Buy a drink with it.
Jos Asuncin's life
was a true poem.
He was 30 when
he shot himself in the heart.
Riddled with debt.
We all are.
...and devastated by the death
of his beloved sister Elvira.
'One night...
'A night full of perfumes,
'of murmurs and
rustling of wings. A night...
'where burned,
'in the nuptial and damp shadow,
'the fantastic fireflies!'
PART ONE - THE FAILURE
Pack your bags and get out.
I don't want you here.
Who will take care of Mom?
I'm the one who lives with her.
And you want to kill her for that?
You can kill yourself,
but you won't take her with you.
Carlos, get out, please.
You have 15 minutes to pack your bags.
Why did you say that to Mom?
- She's going to die.
- She's not going to die.
- She's fine for her age.
- She has something.
You're the one who's not well.
And your drinking problem?
It's going relatively badly.
If Mom dies, what will you do?
Her pension will be gone
and Carlos will kick you out.
- I'll see.
- You'll end up on the street.
What happened to you, scar?
You were brilliant, you taught,
and look at you.
How long has it been since you worked?
- I am a poet.
- You are unemployed.
A poet I am, if being a poet...
- Stop your bullshit.
- I'm expecting money from a deal.
- What deal?
- A very big deal.
- Have you thought about Daniela?
- No, Yolanda. Don't do this to me.
- What have you done for her?
- Yolanda, don't talk about that.
Do you call her?
That's enough. Avoid this subject.
Don't piss me off! Enough!
Why won't you accept?
I'm not going to be a high school teacher,
let alone teach philosophy.
You have to do it, you're not
in a position to choose.
- It's not my thing.
- What is your thing?
I'm writing a book.
A book...
scar, for God's sake!
We're going to do one thing.
I will tell Carlos
that you and I made a deal
so he doesn't kick you out.
I will tell William that Monday morning,
you will be at school.
But you have to commit to me.
- I'm leaving.
- scar.
I'm leaving!
I'm leaving this house!
Don't take my car.
- Hi.
- Hello.
- What is it?
- Nothing.
I just wanted to say hi.
How are you?
Good. And you?
Good.
- I'm eating lunch.
- Oh really?
Sorry. I'll come back later.
Have you had lunch?
Do you want to come in?
Is your mom here?
She doesn't know yet,
she's looking at different options.
But she has to decide quickly,
the exam is approaching.
What interests you?
I don't know
Audiovisual communication.
Philology. Languages.
Very good.
Where do you want to study?
Ideally, at the University of Antioquia.
I don't really like
the University of Antioquia.
She'll end up like those troublemakers,
throwing stones. Right?
It's very difficult anyway.
If she isn't accepted,
she'll go to the University of Medelln.
I don't know.
What do you mean, you don't know?
You know very well!
She's ashamed
because it's expensive.
I'd have to take out a loan.
But well, when you have to.
How much?
Nine million per semester.
I can help you.
Do you have five or 10,000 pesos?
I'll pay you back.
Here is my first published book.
And this is the second one.
- The National Poetry Prize?
- Yes.
Magnificent.
Oscar Restrepo
- You were very young.
- I must have been 24.
25 years old.
Have you ever taught high school?
No, but at the university.
I was a university professor.
And what happened?
Searching for my own path,
I dedicated myself to writing.
I know what kind of person you are.
Your sister was very honest with me.
I will not judge you.
I assume that you want
to contribute to this institution,
to enrich the students.
That he felt bad.
That it's not for him.
That he doesn't see himself as a teacher.
That he's a poet.
scar, talk to Yolanda.
He doesn't want to talk.
- scar, do you hear me?
- He's listening.
scar, I'm furious.
What did we say?
You're making a fool of me
in front of William.
If you don't go back,
forget about me, scar.
He's such a child.
- scar!
- He doesn't want to talk. No.
I don't know what we're going to do.
He's throwing a tantrum.
No, no, no.
I don't know what to do anymore.
Hi, scar.
What are you doing here so early?
- What's wrong?
- Nothing. Nothing is wrong.
It's just that...
I was wondering if there was a way
to sell my books better.
Make them more visible,
or offer them to people.
Your books are there, on display.
You know it's not easy.
Advertise them
so people buy them.
We could organize a reading
dedicated to your work.
Weren't you writing a new book?
Wouldn't you have a job for me here?
What kind of job?
I don't know...
In administration
or coordination.
My daughter is going to university.
I need money.
We are a small organization.
Almost everyone
here is a volunteer.
We have a hard time finding funds
for the poetry festival.
You could teach
at the poetry school.
But I have to talk to Efran,
he is in charge.
He'll be here soon, he will be with you.
We could talk to him about it.
Three-time winner
of the National Poetry Prize,
Vorgine Prize
for his first novel,
City of Buenos Aires Prize
for his second novel,
Julio Estrada Essay Prize,
among many other distinctions.
His work, engaged
in Latin American reality,
explores its roots
and denounces its social
and political mechanisms.
Efran Mendoza
is one of the most revolutionary voices
in Colombian literature.
Good evening.
Thank you very much for being here.
Thirty years ago, Alonso and I,
with some friends, founded this house.
It hasn't been easy.
In my case, my many
occupations prevent me
from dedicating the time
I would like to it, but...
Seeing you tonight
overflowing with love for poetry
is truly wonderful.
I am also delighted to see here
these talented young people
from our poetry school.
I am very honored to be
their mentor this year.
I want to dedicate this poem to them.
The arts are stratified,
reserved for the elites.
True artists create
for the sake of creating.
Of course, one must eat,
but in order to continue creating.
Tell that to a child
from a poor neighborhood,
without education,
without access to art.
Yes, I agree.
You, for example, you had an education,
you are privileged.
A girl growing up in poverty,
at 15,
already has two or three children.
Do you think she's going to think
about writing poetry?
No. Something should be
done about early pregnancies,
but that doesn't exist.
Art doesn't stop bombs.
Poetry doesn't stop war.
Perhaps...
But art, poetry, can
foster a better society.
I don't know, scar,
don't take this the wrong way,
but I doubt you have the qualities
to teach at the poetry school.
What qualities?
We know you.
You know me?
Let's do the reading
dedicated to your work.
Would you like to go on television?
You could do
a promotional interview.
Yes, an interview.
You would reach more people.
Don't you think?
Hello everyone.
We are delighted to be with you.
On the program today,
music, dance, poetry.
Welcome to What Mornings!
Let's start with our first guest,
Don Arnulfo Vlez, the mayor of Sopetrn.
He has come to talk about the magnificent
and delicious Fruit Festival
which will take place
from January 20th to 24th.
Mr Mayor, hello and welcome.
Hello. Welcome everyone
to the Fruit Festival!
We also have
a very special guest.
scar Restrepo, a recognized poet.
Winner of the National Poetry Prize
from the Pepe Sixto Aguinaga
Cultural Center.
has come to share
his beautiful poetry with us.
Let's start with a beautiful love poem
for all our viewers?
- About love?
- Yes, the kind that touches hearts.
While scar looks for the perfect poem,
let's welcome a figure
of urban music, JB.
The song we've been listening to
since the beginning of the show
is his new track,
Wet my Jacuzzi ,
which already has 80,000 views
on his YouTube channel.
It's true, I constantly reinvent myself
for my fans.
- That was bullshit!
- TV doesn't show poetry!
- It's disrespectful.
- It is what it is.
- What do I have to do with that?
- It is what it is.
I don't know
I think that...
What do you want
How do you do it?
How do I do what?
To you, am I a good poet?
To you, I have no talent, right?
You had something.
You were passionate, tormented.
And you managed to write
two or three nice things.
I thought I would be better,
at my age.
Better how? More recognized?
I failed.
The problem isn't recognition.
The problem is you.
You are a poem,
a rather sad one, I would say.
Do you want me to tell you the truth?
You won't change,
you can't change.
You are the way you are.
And you have big demons inside you.
You might be like Kafka,
or Jos Asuncin Silva,
one of those crazy people they recognize
after their death.
But for that,
you should have written
a fucking brilliant poem,
and that, frankly,
you haven't done yet.
You would sell more books
if I were your agent.
I would introduce you
to the right people.
I should have killed myself at 30.
You should write poems
about war, violence,
poverty, indigenous people,
the Amazon, queers...
All those things that
Europeans like about us.
He has a point.
Listen to this poem, I wrote it.
'How bright the moon is
Round like a fruit
'If it fell
It would crush you, you piece of...'
scar, why are you doing this to me?
Don't come here, please.
- Sorry.
- What are you doing?
Sorry.
Don't apologize to me,
don't do this to me.
Sorry for being like this.
For forcing you
to put up with such a father.
I try.
You don't have to try anything.
I'm fine.
I want to help you.
No need, don't worry.
I'm very sensitive lately.
Listen, I have to go.
- Can you leave first?
- Okay.
You're going to make a fool of me
in front of William.
I'm ashamed,
he was so nice to you.
I told him you were sick.
And that you'll be there on Monday
to teach your classes.
And if you don't go,
I'll pack your bags myself.
scar! Open up.
Suffering.
The half-light.
What can be said about the half-light?
Wouldn't it be the twilight
at the trembling dawn of the solar day?
Black holes where everything is forgotten
in the voracity
of engulfed jaws.
Planets enslaved by the cold.
A silence that spreads...
over closed moons.
Any questions?
What about poetry?
Poetry!
Poetry is...
Do you know any poems?
- Have you written or read any poems?
- Sir.
- She writes poems.
- You write poems?
Love poems, for the boyfriend?
About what?
Yurlady, show him.
Are all these poems yours?
Yes, there are poems
and other stuff that I write.
- Are the drawings yours too?
- Yes.
Do you also live
in deep sadness?
Are you melancholic?
No. Sometimes I want to write
when I feel like that.
Do you read?
A little.
Sometimes.
What do you read?
I don't know.
- I like Pizarnik.
- Alejandra Pizarnik?
'Alejandra, Alejandra
'I am underneath, Alejandra'
A teacher made us read her books,
and I really liked her poems.
- She's the one who taught you?
- More or less.
Do you want to be a poet?
What would you like to be?
I don't know.
I like doing makeup...
Styling hair...
I'm learning to do nails.
Things like that.
- Can I borrow this notebook?
- Okay.
"My room is tidy
"My room is clean
"My room is colorful
"Pink
"Purple and green
"Colors of dreams
"Dreams imprisoned in this room
"The walls are of cold concrete
"The floor tiles
are white and shiny
"But a stain tarnishes a corner
"It will never go away
"It will always stay there
"Home and prison
"Refuge and trap
"My room and me--
we are one and the same thing."
I have to take some exams.
scar!
What exams?
"During the Renaissance,
"Aristotelian authority was rejected
"and debated at the end
of the Middle Ages.
"The...
"The humanism of this period had
a fundamentally...
"'Neoplatonic' orientation."
Wouldn't you like to go to university?
- I don't know. Maybe.
- Why maybe?
- At home there are other priorities.
- What priorities?
Who do you live with?
With my grandmother, my uncle,
my little brother,
my two other sisters
and my nephews.
That's a big family.
Do all your brothers and sisters
have children?
- Yes.
- Are they much older?
More or less.
- Maicol is the oldest. He is 22.
- 22 and already a son?
- And your sisters?
- What?
- Are they mothers too?
- Yes.
- Veronica has two children.
- How old is Veronica?
20, I think.
- And Karen has a son.
- How old is Karen?
- 17.
- 17?
She drools over her boyfriend.
He already knocked her up.
My mom also lives with us,
but she only comes on Sundays
because she works for a family.
Is she a maid?
- You don't have children?
- No.
PART TWO - MAGNUM OPUS
They are good.
Very, and she has a lot of them.
What do you want to do?
I don't know.
I feel like she has
something special.
I should do something, right?
Like what?
I don't know.
Don't you have that prize?
A scholarship for young poets?
- She didn't copy them?
- No, they are hers.
Bring her.
- Would she join the poetry school?
- I would like to meet her first.
I'm already teaching her.
I was thinking more of...
a prize or a scholarship
or some other form of help.
We have the poetry festival prize
awarded to a promising young poet,
which includes a little money
and the publication of the poems.
Could she compete?
Only the students
can compete for this prize.
- Bring her and we'll see.
- I don't know, Efran.
If this girl has talent,
why not help her?
But you will bring her
and take her back.
We can't take that on.
We don't have a dime.
I don't know.
I have to ask my grandmother.
Do you want me to talk to her?
- Did you tell your mother?
- No.
We have to ask her mom.
She comes on Sundays.
- You are her teacher?
- Yes, ma'am.
- Will she get a prize?
- Maybe, if she participates.
Money?
- Yes, ma'am, money.
- How much?
I don't know.
- Aren't you eating lunch?
- I'll be right back.
I can't take her, with my knees,
and I have to take care of the kids.
I can take her.
If we don't have to pay anything...
Things are bad, we don't even have
enough to buy an egg.
Do you want to go?
Honey, don't be silly,
they're going to give you some money.
We shouldn't waste the opportunities
that the Lord offers us.
Thank you. Karen,
the baby is crying. Veronica!
Turn down the volume.
He is very ugly.
Yurlady!
Professor, excuse my outfit.
- Edilson, I'm the uncle.
- Nice to meet you.
- Sorry, I'm looking for my things.
- Go right ahead.
"Hello, Giant
"I admire you, Giant
"You are so tall
that you are friends with the moon
"The birds live in your hair
"Can you see my house from up there?
"Have you ever caught a shooting star?
"Does your rough skin feel
my kicks?
"How did you celebrate
your 900th birthday?
"Is that why
you have all these rings?
"You never answer my questions
"But we remain friends
"If a girl
"can be friends with a tree"
- scar, she is fantastic.
- Right?
I would like her to read
at the opening of the festival.
- And compete?
- Of course.
I even think we could
do an interview with her
to promote the festival.
It's a very beautiful story
that deserves to be told
and what you are doing for her
is magnificent.
I don't know, they are weird.
- Didn't you like it?
- I don't know.
They loved you.
Are you a poet?
I try.
Why are you doing this?
Bringing me here?
Because you have a lot of talent.
But how can that help me?
It can help you enormously.
Here, you can cultivate your talent.
They can help you,
you can win the prize.
Art can help you find...
a different path than...
that of someone like you.
- Someone like me?
- Yes.
Someone...
with few opportunities in life,
who risks dropping out of school
because of things like...
Having children...
What is wrong with having children?
- Do you want to have children?
- Yes.
- Right away?
- Well...
Right away, I don't know...
Maybe.
Later. You need to think,
focus on your future.
You could be a great poet.
Why would I want to be
a great poet?
Can you make a living from it?
Didn't you like the pie?
I want to bring it to my nephews.
Cheese?
Yes, or Hawaiian.
Four, is that possible?
Two cheese
and two Hawaiian, please.
- Do you sell bagged milk?
- Yes.
- Is this poem thing true?
- What?
That I can win over a girl
with a poem
- Yes.
- How?
- Tell me who it is.
- Carolina.
- No, not her.
- Who?
She's not from the school
Does it have to be a love poem?
Can I write about something else?
- Of course, about what?
- My mother or my sister.
- You're crazy about Angela.
- Not at all.
- The one with the braids.
- Not her.
- Write her a poem to win her over.
- Not her.
- Hello.
- Professor, how are you?
- Good, and you?
- Good, thank God.
I wanted to tell you something.
I have some
very comprehensive encyclopedias.
They have all the information
you need.
I didn't finish high school,
but I read a lot.
I can tell you the capital
of any country. Ask me.
- Is Yurlady here?
- I think she went out.
These encyclopedias are gathering dust,
but they are in perfect condition.
Shall I show them to you?
- Edilson, don't bother the professor.
- I'll bring them.
Professor, I wanted
to thank you for the groceries.
God bless you.
You can't imagine how we live.
Edilson bought a huge TV on credit,
even though we are very poor.
He hasn't even paid
the first installment.
- Is Yurlady here?
- She is with her friend Natalia.
- Did she know you were coming?
- I had told her.
I'm going to be honest with you.
She is talented, but lazy.
You have to push her for everything.
The slightest thing stops her.
- That's not true!
- It is true.
- Professor...
- Are you giving them away?
No, whatever you are willing to give.
Are you not coming?
Now?
Yes, we are late.
I don't know if I can.
Why not?
I have to take care of my nephews.
Your grandmother didn't say anything.
Can you come for a moment?
I'll go tomorrow.
Tomorrow?
No.
You have to make an effort, sacrifices.
Think about your future.
Where do you want to be
in 10, 20 years?
Do you want to be better or do you want
to paint your nails with your friend?
Let's try for a few more days.
If you don't like it, I won't insist.
But if we try,
we try seriously. Okay?
Do you have 10,000 pesos?
For what?
For a purple nail polish
with glitter.
Hi Yurlady, how are you?
I'd like to introduce you to Frida,
cultural attach
of the Netherlands embassy,
who helps us a lot
with the festival.
I told her that you were
going to read your poems
on opening night.
Ur-ley?
I hear a lot about you.
Yurlady.
Very connected. You and me.
Thank you.
I like poetry because it allows me
to express what I feel.
YURLADY GUERRERO - YOUNG POEI like to write poems
about things that happen to me.
She's had this
since she was a little girl.
That's why it's very important for us
that she is supported.
DAMARIS PALACIOS - AUNIf we support them, with resources,
they can succeed
in expressing themselves artistically
without falling into violence.
In our city, there are boys and girls
from all neighborhoods
EFRAN MENDOZA - POET AND WRITER
even the poorest, with a lot
of talent and few opportunities.
Thanks to our poetry school,
we seek to make art
a tool that promotes social change.
It's magnificent, moving!
What beautiful work you are doing
with this poetry school.
And now that you are here,
to promote the poetry festival,
I would like to ask Yurlady a question.
How does it feel to have
the opportunity to read your poems
in front of such a large audience?
Well, I am very happy.
It's wonderful, really.
What do you like most?
The opportunity I am being given.
And to learn.
Yurlady, what is your dream?
You could read any of them.
All your poems are very beautiful.
But you know what?
None of them are striking enough
for the opening of the festival.
You could write one
about more serious subjects.
For example
the problems in your neighborhood,
the lack of opportunities,
your skin color...
Do you understand?
I think her poems are very good.
Very, but we have to think
about the audience we are addressing.
How to reach a wider audience
and move them.
It could touch the jury more
and help you win the prize.
It would be a poem about you,
about what you represent socially.
I don't think so.
She likes to write simple things.
scar, you are a poet,
you know about poetry,
but you have no idea what
art represents to the public.
And that is precisely why
your work is not, how to say.
Very recognized.
It's not a question of writing
a political pamphlet,
but of inserting into the subtext
of your poetry, which is magnificent,
a subtle layer of important themes
that appeal to people,
telling them what they want to hear.
It will make you an even more
incredible poet than you already are.
Are you going to invite anyone
to the reading?
I don't know.
My mother has to work,
and my grandmother has to
take care of my nephews.
My sisters don't really like it.
Maybe my brother,
but he is busy too.
And your father?
- You don't have one?
- He doesn't live with us.
- But do you talk to him?
- He left when I was very little.
Where is he?
I don't know.
- And wouldn't you like to talk to him?
- No.
Before, it made me sad.
Now, I don't feel anything anymore.
I expect nothing.
And it doesn't even make me angry.
- You don't love him?
- No.
I have a daughter.
She is almost your age.
Her name is Daniela.
Does she live with you?
No, with her mother.
But do you go see her?
Sometimes.
To tell the truth,
she doesn't like me very much.
And I understand her.
Why doesn't she like you?
I haven't been the best of fathers.
Do you love her?
A lot.
But I have been...
quite...
problematic.
I am making an effort.
Why problematic?
I don't even know.
I haven't been very...
How to say?
Normal.
I don't think it's very fun
to have a father like me.
I am not normal.
If your father came back for you,
could you love him again?
I don't think so.
No.
Your father is outside.
Are you coming out
or should I tell him to come in?
What you lent me.
When is the exam?
Next week.
How do you feel?
I don't know.
Are you studying?
Yes.
I can help you.
No, thank you.
I wanted to apologize
for last time.
It's nothing.
I am very proud of you.
Thank you.
If you fail,
I will pay for university.
scar, no.
I know you're very mad at me.
I'm not mad at you.
You don't feel anything?
What should I feel?
I'm changing.
This time, it's different.
Okay.
You don't care. Do you?
scar, what do you want me to say?
You are a child.
Sorry.
Do you hate me?
I pity you...
I have to go back to studying.
"When art frees itself from the regulatory
sphere of its aesthetic proposition
"through social and financial control,
"insofar as it claims the supremacy
of its established powers
"the artist is an autonomous being,
and the work is even more so.
"'Claims' is equivalent
in this text to...
"A: To fight,
B: To deny,
"C: To reach,
D: To oppose."
A: To fight.
Did you find the right answer?
I'm better
at reading comprehension.
I keep logical reasoning
for the end,
- I don't have time.
- It'll be fine.
If I fail, I'll kill myself.
No, it's not that bad.
If you fail, you'll start again.
Grandma is alone
when you're not here?
It's my natural state.
Yolanda comes sometimes,
but she often stays alone.
I could keep her company.
If you do that,
I'll help you study.
"I ask her: "How are you?"
She doesn't even look at me
"I don't know what to do,
she fascinates me
"If she just said: "Hi, Elkin",
I would be happy
"I would offer her a rose
and take her to the pool
"She is tall and beautiful,
and her name is Carolina"
Thank you, Elkin.
Very good.
You are inspired, but you could take this
more seriously, write something else.
- I only came up with that.
- More rigorous.
I don't know if Carolina
will be thrilled with your dedication
You only like Yurlady's poems.
- Excuse me, what?
- Nothing.
- I heard you.
- You only like Yurlady's poems.
That's not true. I give you
comments to help you.
You don't say anything to her.
- Do you want to read?
- How would I know if it's good?
- Let Yurlady read...
- The poet.
- The poetess.
- Son of a bitch.
- What?
- You heard me.
- Let's calm down.
- She insulted me.
Is it an extracurricular activity?
Why wasn't I informed?
She has enormous talent.
I'm helping her.
It's delicate.
You must follow a protocol.
Write a letter
specifying the type of activity
at what time, where,
and signed by the parents
And there would be no problem.
Now, as for
what happened in class,
let's not make a big deal of it.
Talk to them
and get them to reconcile.
Alright.
I don't want to go anymore.
You don't want
to read at the poetry festival?
Well...
Impossible.
She was thrilled on television.
She doesn't want to.
She never wanted to.
She will be the first to read.
Everyone wants to hear her.
The people from the Dutch embassy
are delighted.
Tell her it's important
for her and for her future.
- Why don't you tell her yourself?
- Because she is here thanks to you.
Look what you've done for her.
It's your masterpiece,
your Magnum Opus.
The most beautiful poem
you have ever written.
Listen...
Buy her a pretty dress
and get some groceries for her family.
There you go!
Oh really?
I did it
- You're cheating.
- No.
I'm not cheating.
I won.
Goodbye Dad.
Goodbye.
"Poets, like sad warehouses,
"have a whole assortment of ghosts.
"Of ghosts?
"The city is so big,
and I'm looking for you."
"Remember, woman.
"At your music box show
"they don't come to admire you
but to be admired.
"Don't forget.
"They are
nothing but merchants of defeat.
"Monarchs of failure.
And you, their playground."
"What would I be
if I were less black?
"If I were less hungry
"If my future was secure
"If peace reigned in my neighborhood
"And if I walked there with a light step
"Without fear in my heart
"Without burning questions
"Without a world that spies
"Without borders that blind
"But I am all of that
"And all of that made me strong
"Every shadow, every struggle
"Every dream I pursue
"Under this sky without promises"
Can I have some more chicken,
please?
This piece too, please.
Thank you.
Look, two.
Can I take one of these flowers?
I think so.
You can take it when we leave.
- Cheers! Who wants some?
- Me.
- Yurlady, no, not you.
- Just one glass...
Just one.
Let her have a drink
to celebrate.
- And your glass?
- I'm not drinking.
Cheers!
We are paid less.
As for us, they took our lands.
We have to have children
and keep the house.
- Your traditions have been wiped out?
- Has anyone ever touched your butt?
- Take care of the husband and children.
- Is that what your women are for?
Instead of reading poetry,
you should be sweeping.
- You call yourself a poet.
- And I'm proud of it.
- Poet!
- I represent my community...
Cheers!
- What are you doing here?
- I'm listening to poetry.
Very beautiful. I loved the little girl's
poem.
I'd like to introduce you
to my new partner, Baldomero Muoz,
director of a law firm.
Champagne!
Cheers!
Not everyone recognizes
a good poem or a good poet.
It takes sensitivity to detect
poetry where you don't expect it,
under the stones, in the street.
It's harder than writing it.
Poetry is everywhere,
in the most mundane words.
Not everyone sees it.
You have to know how to look.
I'm not talking about a sunset
or a rainbow. No, sir.
What enters a black hole
disappears, it sucks everything in.
I'm not talking about
throwing things in there.
It sucks in time, absorbs it,
grinds it down like a blender.
I got interested in that.
Do you know what a black hole is?
We don't know what's beyond it.
It could be God, a parallel
universe, the past or the future.
- Myth is the comfort of the ignorant.
- Do you know what you're talking about?
How are the classes going?
Good.
A new talent?
No.
Other attributes then?
What?
Asses, boobs!
Ah, no.
Do you want some?
A CLEAN BATHROOM SPEAKS
WELL OF THE PERSON WHO USES IShit.
She's drunk.
- We have to take her to the hospital.
- No, we'll get in trouble.
Should I take her back?
Better wait for it to pass.
I'll be right back.
Do you want to throw up?
Throw up.
She is heavy.
Can you help me?
Efran!
What happened?
Fucking hell.
My God!
What happened to her?
Yurlady, can you hear me?
- What?
- She is drunk.
- Someone gave her something.
- What?
We don't know,
she was lying there...
What did we do?
She is alive.
My God.
- Let's take her to the hospital.
- Is Edilson asleep?
- He hasn't come home.
- And Maicol?
I have a car.
If you want,
we can take her to the hospital.
What happened?
- She got drunk.
- Drunk?
- How old is she?
- 15.
15? So young
and you let her drink alcohol?
This gentleman brought her back drunk.
- Are you the father?
- No, I am her teacher.
I am her grandmother,
and she is her sister.
Her teacher?
- You were with her?
- We were at a poetry festival.
She read her poems,
then started drinking.
I brought her back.
You let her drink?
No. She started drinking
with her friends.
Did you know?
She was supposed to be at a school party,
but she didn't come home.
Until he left her there.
Well...
We were at a table
and someone brought a bottle.
Did you drink?
Yes, I think so.
Sit down.
What else do you remember?
Why do you have marks
on your body?
You have minor injuries,
marks from a blow or compression.
Did you fall?
I had to carry her to the car,
then to her house.
We will keep her
under observation until tomorrow.
She is very dehydrated.
Only one person
can stay with her.
scar.
PART THREE - ART WILL SAVE US
Hello. Excuse me.
This is Doris Rodrguez.
If you don't know her,
she's the school psychologist.
Hello.
- Hello.
- Hello, sir.
Hi, girls.
Hello.
Sorry, we are eating.
How is Yurlady?
Very bad. Dehydrated. Intoxicated.
Very weak.
- She's sweating, she's throwing up.
- We are sorry.
We didn't know.
The teacher did this outside
the school and without authorization.
It wasn't a school activity?
How could you let this teacher
take her out of school?
- Actually...
- It is also your responsibility.
It shouldn't have happened.
We are here to prevent this kind
of situation from happening,
but you'll understand
that it's difficult.
And sometimes,
things escape our control.
Could I speak to Yurlady
to evaluate her quickly?
We just brought her back
from the hospital, she is sleeping.
If you had seen
how he brought her
and left her in front of the house.
And he was leaving.
If Karen and I hadn't seen him,
he would have run away.
- He left her there?
- Yes.
At two in the morning, and he left.
- You didn't know he had taken her?
- No.
He was nice,
he brought groceries,
and he bought her things,
to support her
because she was very talented,
They even interviewed her.
But you...
Why did you let him in too?
I work all day.
I told you he came to invite her
to read poems at school.
That she didn't really like it
but she didn't dare say no.
It has nothing to do with school.
Let's not tell stories.
He was very nice.
We trusted him because
he said he was a teacher.
But the truth is,
she has strange marks on her body,
and we wonder
if he did something to her.
No.
She got drunk
and he brought her back.
- How do you know?
- Knowing Yurlady...
- But what marks?
- Bruises on her back.
Hi, Yurlady.
HUG ME
How are you doing?
Do you want to sit down?
Do you remember
what happened last night?
Do you think scar could
have done something to you?
How can you be so sure?
Do you know him well?
Did he say things to you
or behave inappropriately?
Or not?
You have to prove to me
that he didn't do anything to her.
I feel like
he was trying to seduce her.
What kind of teacher goes
to a student's house, buys her things,
then gets her drunk,
and leaves her like that.
For what purpose?
It's very serious,
and as a mother, we must be suspicious.
Do you know him?
Can you guarantee me
that he is not a pervert?
What happened?
I warned you
that there were rules to follow.
- How is she doing?
- We won't tell you.
- Is she okay?
- She is disturbed.
She doesn't remember anything.
The young people from the poetry school
- will confirm they all got drunk?
- Yes, of course.
Her mother is very angry
at us and at you.
She is talking about pressing charges.
You must state very clearly
that you acted without consent
and without the knowledge
of the institution.
And we have to relieve you
of your teaching position.
Mr William, I need this job.
My daughter is going to university.
You should have thought of that
before acting the way you did.
- No, listen to me.
- You left me alone.
I told you to wait for it to pass.
I went to get a room
so she could lie down.
Right?
- Why didn't you tell me?
- I don't know,
but you took her.
So what?
You should have given her water,
broth...
Anything, except what you did.
You made them drink.
No. I said they could drink
one glass of champagne, no more.
You were responsible for them.
Alonso.
Let's talk to the kids from the school
to clear up what happened.
They are angry with you.
You showed them your ass.
My ass?
You were discussing black holes
or I don't know what.
You pulled down your pants and said
"Look at this black hole."
- No! I did that?
- You made a huge mess.
Why did you take her like that?
With your reputation?
What did you do to my sister?
What did you do to my sister?
Calm down, son.
- I want to know what happened.
- Nothing.
Last night was the opening
of our festival.
She read her poems,
then she started drinking
with her classmates.
You gave her alcohol?
She is 15!
I told her not to drink.
Why did you leave her
in front of the house like that?
It looks fishy.
It looks very suspicious.
And those marks on her body?
No, I just wanted to help her
write her poems.
Help her?
What do you want?
The truth.
- That is the truth.
- Do you want money?
Help!
- Tell me what you did to her!
- Help!
Help!
Tell me what you did to her!
Bastards!
You will all end up in prison.
Sons of bitches!
- You left her? What did you do to her?
- Nothing.
You're going to talk to this guy,
negotiate,
offer him money if necessary.
You brought her,
it's your responsibility.
Let's go clear this up with the kids.
It has nothing to do with us.
I'm holding this place together
and I'm not going to let you
destroy everything.
scar! scar!
Efran, let me talk to them.
- scar, go away.
- I need to talk to them.
- Rapist!
- When is this going to stop?
- Let's calm down.
- We won't calm down. Misogynist,
- you showed us your ass.
- I don't remember.
You have a hairy mole.
I dance, I dance for Yurlady,
for those who are gone.
I dance for all of us,
I dance because you do nothing.
You are killing us.
There is violence.
There is violence!
scar, go away, please.
Let me go!
BUKOWSKI
No...
What happened?
William called me.
So?
Not now, Yolanda.
I don't want to talk about it.
That girl wants money.
- What are you going to say to Daniela?
- About what?
Daniela was here with Mom
when William called.
Did you tell her?
- She heard.
- Heard what?
- scar...
- Women are evil, I know them.
She is very angry and very sad.
I'll explain it to her.
She knows you. You will never change.
I've changed. It's a misunderstanding.
We don't care.
You always end up ruining everything.
Daniela doesn't like
her friends seeing her with you.
She's embarrassed
when they see you drunk.
- She's my daughter.
- And?
- I want to be part of her life.
- You've never been part of her life.
And she doesn't want to talk to you.
Don't make her suffer, leave her alone.
- Go live your life, scar, leave us.
- Go away!
- Daniela.
- Go away! Don't bother me anymore!
I hope you die
and I never see you again.
Go away, scar!
What did you say to Daniela?
But, William.
scar doesn't do these kinds of things.
I'm not saying scar hurt her.
- It's Yurlady's family.
- What an idiot.
Some students say
that scar taught drunk
and that he took Yurlady to his home.
That's not true!
Who says that?
- Some students.
- They're lying. Ask Yurlady.
She also seems to doubt you.
The kids from the Poetry House
visited her
and told her that you showed them
your private parts.
Yolanda, I appreciate you
but it was a mistake
to accept your brother,
given his reputation.
I have to hang up. Goodbye.
scar, what did you do?
I may have a reputation
as a drunk, a crazy person.
But I acted for Yurlady's sake.
I didn't do anything to her
and Daniela needs to know that.
You let her drink alcohol,
participate in these activities
without her mother's permission.
You are responsible too.
Maybe we were too permissive
with this alcohol thing,
but you have to understand.
They are young, they were partying.
But when scar brought Yurlady
to the Poetry House,
we agreed that he was
the one assuming responsibility.
I was supposed to bring her
and take her back, nothing more.
I told you I'd accept her
if you took responsibility for it.
And it was logical for us
to assume
that scar had the authorization
of the family and the school.
You told me to bring her
even though she didn't want to.
We forget that the most delicate part
of this situation
is the way
you took her out of the hotel.
She was drunk, what could I do?
You saw.
I saw when you took her out of the hotel.
And you left her there?
I shouldn't have left her
in front of the house. It was a mistake.
- I got scared.
- Why were you scared?
You left her
because you felt guilty.
- One might think so.
- And the bruises?
I had to carry her.
The medical report says...
"Marks probably caused
by blows or compression."
It doesn't say it's
because you carried her.
I carried her like this.
It's not necessary...
What are you doing?
- I'm showing you.
- Sit down.
You have no witness and no proof
to corroborate your claims.
Let them press charges, I don't care.
I want the truth to be known.
Our institution has already taken the step
of relieving you of your position.
We must now
accompany the student and her family
to the prosecutor's office
and the Ministry of Education.
We shouldn't even be here.
You created this mess.
But we don't want legal problems
in the middle of a poetry festival.
The Dutch might
withdraw their funding
if this gets out of hand
with all these rumors.
The solution is very simple.
Talk to the family.
Tell them what happened.
Apologize to them.
Convince them to withdraw their complaint.
To apologize would be to admit my guilt.
I just want my daughter to know
that I didn't do anything.
If you manage to convince the family,
Yurlady could talk to your daughter...
Excuse us...
She could tell your daughter
that indeed, nothing happened.
No one wants a trial.
- You have the most to lose.
- Let them sue.
Why bother with things
that aren't worth it?
scar,
help us.
Do it for the Poetry House.
You are part of it.
You want this to stop?
Look at these girls from the poetry school
with their hairy armpits,
all angry. It sucks.
Poetry is not what it used to be.
Poetry used to be more...
I don't think the girl's family
will agree to talk to scar.
- Hi!
- Hi.
- Is your grandmother here?
- Grandma!
I can't believe this man
just wanted to help her write poems.
Listen, gentlemen.
We can't be sure
that he did something to her.
But in Colombian law,
there is a principle called
"beyond a reasonable doubt"
What does that mean?
That based on the existing evidence,
there can be a "certainty"
that he did something to her.
- Do you understand?
- Thank you very much.
Ma'am.
We understand you...
perfectly.
We understand that you are angry.
I would be too.
But I can guarantee you one thing.
We always seek, through poetry,
to promote the well-being
of young people like your daughter.
That is what poetry
represents for us.
And what happened is not poetry.
It does not represent
this wonderful expression
of which your daughter
is a worthy representative.
We saw talent in her,
and we wanted to support her.
Listen to him.
Let scar explain to you
what happened.
scar!
No. No, I don't see
sincerity in his eyes.
scar, tell them everything.
Make an effort.
Ma'am...
It is the truth.
- Yurlady, you know it.
- No, she doesn't know.
She doesn't know who you are.
She doesn't know you well enough.
And you don't know her either.
Ma'am, my daughter is very angry with me.
I need her to know--
What your daughter already knows,
is that you are a pervert.
As for me,
you haven't convinced me otherwise.
- But Mom.
- You, be quiet.
You are grounded.
We know scar, we know
that he's a walking disaster.
He's a bit stupid, clumsy,
a bad poet.
But, as Ral Gmez Jattin said,
people like scar
only hurt themselves.
Everything you imagine
he could have done to Yurlady,
it never happened.
No, I do not see
sincerity in his eyes.
- scar is ready to pay you.
- What do you mean?
In compensation for the inconvenience
you have suffered.
- Are you offering me money?
- Don't get defensive.
We may be poor,
but we have dignity.
- Wait, how much?
- What do you mean, "how much"?
- One million.
- One million?
What a lack of respect.
It's like asking me to sell my daughter.
- It's very serious.
- No, Mom.
Come and talk.
Yaneth, come!
What are you doing?
I don't know how,
but you will pay me back everything.
Is there an ATM around here?
Yes, sir, at the corner of the street.
- Yaneth, think about it.
- No need.
This man came to explain
that he didn't do anything to her.
Don't get stuck on this.
We need this money.
- Go away, Yurlady.
- He didn't do anything to me.
A trial is long and solves nothing.
Think of the little one.
- She has already suffered a lot.
- Yes, Mom, I've suffered enough already.
- It's not for you.
- For all of us.
Half is mine.
I am the victim!
Two million and it's a deal.
Impossible.
scar doesn't have more.
There are things to consider.
That is the maximum.
Fine, okay.
But one more thing.
We need a guarantee
that you won't do anything after this.
We sign a document
stating that everything is settled.
It would be more appropriate
to make a video.
- What?
- A video?
Where Yurlady accepts full responsibility
for what happened,
that no one did anything to her,
that she got drunk by herself,
and apologizes
for all the inconvenience.
- Apologize?
- No, Efran...
- To show where?
- No, not to show it.
- It's a guarantee that protects us.
- I don't think that's necessary.
I wrote to my lawyer,
and he suggested it to me.
It will be a bit more then.
No, impossible. That's all we have.
I, Yurlady Guerrero,
assume full responsibility
for what happened.
Nothing was done to me.
No one did anything to me,
at the poetry festival party.
No one did anything to me,
at the poetry festival party.
I got drunk all by myself
and I apologize
for the inconvenience caused.
And I wish good luck
to Poesa Viva and its festival.
And I wish good luck
to Poesa Viva and its festival.
Perfect.
Do you remember everything?
Efran, I don't think that's necessary.
Just give them the money.
What if you were with her in the video?
Come closer, please.
Yes, the children in the back.
Go ahead.
Edilson, you too, please.
Yes. Go ahead, please.
Get closer so you're in the frame.
- Ready?
- Ready.
- Rolling.
- Alonso, wait.
- What?
- scar, go away.
It's not necessary.
We're trying to fix the mess you caused.
- Do you see another solution?
- Why force them to do this?
You're making things worse for yourself.
Let me fix things.
Didn't you want to fix things
with your daughter?
- Ready?
- Ready. Rolling.
I, Yurlady Guerrero,
take full responsibility
for what happened.
What are you doing?
- Move.
- Give me my phone.
What are you trying to do?
- Give me that phone.
- Don't film.
- What about the money?
- No video, no money.
- Give it to them, I'll pay you back.
- Where are you going to find the money?
- I can do it.
- You see? She wants to do it.
It doesn't affect me at all.
I don't care about you.
- You're not recording anything.
- Give me the phone.
- Give it to me.
- No.
- Give it to me.
- No.
- Give it to me.
- No.
We're almost done.
- Give it...
- No.
No!
We're almost done.
Get out!
Get out!
- No video, no money.
- I don't care about your money! Get out!
You are the most mediocre poet
I have ever seen in my life.
I wish for you to be the greatest poet
in this country
and that you write
many beautiful verses.
Sorry.
PART FOUR - A JOYOUS POEM
"In light of the unfortunate events
that recently occurred
"during our poetry festival,
"the Poesa Viva Cultural Center clarifies
that it has no ties
"with the poet scar Restrepo.
"He will not be invited
to any of our future events.
"We strongly condemn
any inappropriate behavior
"that would violate the values
and principles of Poesa Viva
"as a safe space aiming for
the well-being of our community,
"a place where love, tenderness,
and poetry reign
"in their strongest sense."
Sons of bitches.
- I'm going to kill myself.
- Don't start with that.
I can't take it anymore.
I've failed at everything. I give up.
I give up on poetry, on life.
I give up on everything.
- I'm going to jump out the window.
- Jump! I'm watching you.
You don't even have the courage.
- You don't understand.
- As if I didn't know you.
You are completely predictable.
You're going to get drunk, aren't you?
What did I do
to deserve so much misfortune?
You love playing the victim.
It looks like you enjoy it.
You're just a coward
who didn't have the courage to face life.
It's hard for everyone.
No one is responsible
for what happens to you.
You're the one who took it upon yourself
to fall into this black hole,
convinced that you're a sad poet
carrying a fatality and a curse.
Wake up, get out of that hole.
You don't need those people.
They are not your friends.
You may be a drunk,
but you're noble.
And you have me.
Do you want something to eat?
Thank you, Mom.
Hi, Daniela.
You don't know me.
But I know your father.
First of all, I wanted to apologize
for taking your notebook.
I thought it was pretty.
And since mine was almost full,
I thought I would use it.
Sorry.
That's where I found your address.
Secondly,
I heard that you hate your father
because you were told
he did something to me.
He didn't do anything to me.
He wanted to help me.
He wanted me to become a great poet,
but that was his dream,
not mine.
But he made me realize
that I don't like poetry,
or at least not the poetry
as he showed it to me.
I just like to write what I feel.
And draw.
My dreams are simpler.
To have a house,
a job,
help my mother,
my grandmother,
my brothers and sisters.
Things like that.
I don't think you need much to live well.
Your dad told me about you.
The distant relationship you have.
I understand you.
I have a father like that too.
And it's not your fault.
We have to carry the burden
of having these fathers
for the rest of our lives.
The only thing I can assure you,
is that he loves you very much
and that he is trying to change.
I really hope he succeeds
and that this letter
will help you not to hate him.
Well,
that's all.
I wish you the best in your life.
See you later. Yurlady.
- Hi.
- Hi.
- Is this your father's?
- Yes.
I prefer the other one.
A yellow one, that was somewhere.
Have you read this one?
No? Let's see.
LAS FLORAS
Read this poem.
Your father wrote it
when I was pregnant with you.
"My beautiful little flower
"That I planted in the garden
"I want to protect and love you
"But without water and without soil
I'm afraid of ruining you"
This little flower is you.
Hi.
Hi.
It's nice here. Do you come often?
Sometimes
They have Bukowski.
I don't like Bukowski.
I don't hate you.
And I don't want you to die.
But I don't want us to be closer.
I don't think it's good for me.
Honestly,
I want things to be like before.
To talk from time to time
or when I go visit Grandma.
When it's strictly necessary.
You know what I think?
You are a good poet.
But I don't care.
- Just be a good person.
- I tried.
It's not enough.
What do you want,
for me to love you?
You can't have something
if you haven't fought for it.
- I'm fighting, it's not easy.
- Not enough.
Get help.
Prove to me that you've changed.
But don't drag me down with you.
Come see me when you've really changed.
Okay.
I understand.
I love you very much.
Goodbye.
Yurlady...
I hope I'm not bothering you
with these words.
I promise you these will be the last.
I want to thank you for the letter
you wrote to my daughter.
Today, I felt like writing a poem.
I hadn't done that for a long time.
I want to share it with you.
I wanted it to be a less sad poem.
Less melancholic.
Like yours.
I don't know if I succeeded,
but I was surprised that I liked it.
scar!
- Call an ambulance.
- What's going on?
- Call an ambulance.
- What's wrong?
The poem I wrote goes like this:
'Here I am
'A man
'An old-fashioned dinosaur
'Carrier of grievances
'Deserving condemnation
'Fragile dreamer
'But don't lose faith yet
'In this sad poet
'Who is trying to write
'A joyous poem'
A POE
- I don't know.
- Stronger?
- The same.
- What did they say?
- Nothing. Everything is fine.
Why did they change it then?
- Why won't you tell me the truth?
- I just told you.
- Is something wrong with you?
- No.
10,000 pesos?
Mom, you only think about money.
Give me 20.
No.
Don't take my car.
Wash it and park it!
Look at this letter from Deutsche Bank,
the largest German bank.
It is signed by its director,
Paul Aschreiner.
It says that this week,
the President of the United States
will sign the decree
that will release the funds.
- Give me my money back.
- Trust me.
- You've been saying that for a year.
- It's a long-term investment.
What do I need?
Bank account certificate
and a copy of your ID,
so they can transfer the money to you.
- I don't have a bank account.
- And?
- Javier, give me my money back.
- Poet, are you stupid?
It's a golden opportunity.
You have to know how to sniff out deals
when they present themselves.
What you invested is nothing
compared to what you will receive.
Listen.
My contact tells me the bonds
are being redeemed.
With the approval
of the Zimbabwean government.
You invested in bonds
worth ten million dollars.
I'll make you a millionaire,
you little bastard. I'm telling you.
You'll be able to write your poems
on a beautiful farm
with a river.
- I just need to use your account!
- I won't give you anything.
I'm not asking you for anything.
They are going to transfer it to me.
- I said no.
- Why are you doing this to me, Mom?
Mom?
Mom?
Mom?
Mom.
What's wrong?
- I need to sit down.
- What is it?
- Is something wrong?
- It will pass.
Tell me the truth.
You're annoying me.
Me?
I am old.
I won't always be here.
Do you want to die?
I will help you.
And I will go with you, if you want.
What? Go with me?
Have you been drinking?
scar Restrepo, poet
born in Santuario in 1968
Historian from
the University of Antioquia.
Great admirer and connoisseur
of Jos Asuncin Silva,
to whom he dedicates
some of his poems.
In 1992, his book Los Desusos
received the first prize
in the 5th National Poetry Contest
organized by the Pepe Sixto Aguinaga
Cultural Center.
Polita
Thank you very much. Good evening.
First of all,
thank you very much, Alonso,
for inviting me to share my poetry
in this beautiful sanctuary of words
where every poet is a little god,
and each of you,
by interpreting the poet,
is another little god.
scar Restrepo would define himself
as an eternal, perpetual dreamer.
A seeker of chimeras
through words.
I started reading at 12,
and then writing verses.
At 15, already,
I felt like, I believed I was a poet.
That was my only aspiration.
To be an unhappy and vain poet.
I say "unhappy"
because suffering has been
the raw material of my poetry.
Those who have read my books
can attest to it.
I identify with Wilde
when he says...
"Where there is sorrow
there is holy ground."
But I must admit that we,
poets, are hyperbolic.
And this hyperbole,
this constant exaggeration
of our suffering,
we take it to the third
or even fourth degree.
One of my readers
once told me...
Poet...
"How can you write
a poem so beautiful, yet so sad?"
- I quoted Ernesto Sabato to him.
- scar!
Which poem are you going to read?
No poet has achieved
the virtuosity of Jos Asuncin Silva
in this fucking country.
His scansion, his rhythm, his musicality.
In a hundred years. None.
- Don't tell me he was better than...
- Who?
The one who won the prize,
with the mustache.
- Garca Mrquez?
- Yes, the one who wrote The Alchemist.
- The Alchemist is by Paulo Coelho.
- No.
Garca Mrquez wrote
One Hundred Years of Solitude.
Yes. Garca Mrquez, the best.
Garca Mrquez was
thirsty for recognition.
Jos Asuncin Silva, on the other hand,
never wrote for recognition.
- And nobody knows him.
- Nobody?
Oh man... Look at that.
Doesn't that seem important to you?
- Garca Mrquez on the 50 bill.
- Overrated!
Buy a drink with it.
Jos Asuncin's life
was a true poem.
He was 30 when
he shot himself in the heart.
Riddled with debt.
We all are.
...and devastated by the death
of his beloved sister Elvira.
'One night...
'A night full of perfumes,
'of murmurs and
rustling of wings. A night...
'where burned,
'in the nuptial and damp shadow,
'the fantastic fireflies!'
PART ONE - THE FAILURE
Pack your bags and get out.
I don't want you here.
Who will take care of Mom?
I'm the one who lives with her.
And you want to kill her for that?
You can kill yourself,
but you won't take her with you.
Carlos, get out, please.
You have 15 minutes to pack your bags.
Why did you say that to Mom?
- She's going to die.
- She's not going to die.
- She's fine for her age.
- She has something.
You're the one who's not well.
And your drinking problem?
It's going relatively badly.
If Mom dies, what will you do?
Her pension will be gone
and Carlos will kick you out.
- I'll see.
- You'll end up on the street.
What happened to you, scar?
You were brilliant, you taught,
and look at you.
How long has it been since you worked?
- I am a poet.
- You are unemployed.
A poet I am, if being a poet...
- Stop your bullshit.
- I'm expecting money from a deal.
- What deal?
- A very big deal.
- Have you thought about Daniela?
- No, Yolanda. Don't do this to me.
- What have you done for her?
- Yolanda, don't talk about that.
Do you call her?
That's enough. Avoid this subject.
Don't piss me off! Enough!
Why won't you accept?
I'm not going to be a high school teacher,
let alone teach philosophy.
You have to do it, you're not
in a position to choose.
- It's not my thing.
- What is your thing?
I'm writing a book.
A book...
scar, for God's sake!
We're going to do one thing.
I will tell Carlos
that you and I made a deal
so he doesn't kick you out.
I will tell William that Monday morning,
you will be at school.
But you have to commit to me.
- I'm leaving.
- scar.
I'm leaving!
I'm leaving this house!
Don't take my car.
- Hi.
- Hello.
- What is it?
- Nothing.
I just wanted to say hi.
How are you?
Good. And you?
Good.
- I'm eating lunch.
- Oh really?
Sorry. I'll come back later.
Have you had lunch?
Do you want to come in?
Is your mom here?
She doesn't know yet,
she's looking at different options.
But she has to decide quickly,
the exam is approaching.
What interests you?
I don't know
Audiovisual communication.
Philology. Languages.
Very good.
Where do you want to study?
Ideally, at the University of Antioquia.
I don't really like
the University of Antioquia.
She'll end up like those troublemakers,
throwing stones. Right?
It's very difficult anyway.
If she isn't accepted,
she'll go to the University of Medelln.
I don't know.
What do you mean, you don't know?
You know very well!
She's ashamed
because it's expensive.
I'd have to take out a loan.
But well, when you have to.
How much?
Nine million per semester.
I can help you.
Do you have five or 10,000 pesos?
I'll pay you back.
Here is my first published book.
And this is the second one.
- The National Poetry Prize?
- Yes.
Magnificent.
Oscar Restrepo
- You were very young.
- I must have been 24.
25 years old.
Have you ever taught high school?
No, but at the university.
I was a university professor.
And what happened?
Searching for my own path,
I dedicated myself to writing.
I know what kind of person you are.
Your sister was very honest with me.
I will not judge you.
I assume that you want
to contribute to this institution,
to enrich the students.
That he felt bad.
That it's not for him.
That he doesn't see himself as a teacher.
That he's a poet.
scar, talk to Yolanda.
He doesn't want to talk.
- scar, do you hear me?
- He's listening.
scar, I'm furious.
What did we say?
You're making a fool of me
in front of William.
If you don't go back,
forget about me, scar.
He's such a child.
- scar!
- He doesn't want to talk. No.
I don't know what we're going to do.
He's throwing a tantrum.
No, no, no.
I don't know what to do anymore.
Hi, scar.
What are you doing here so early?
- What's wrong?
- Nothing. Nothing is wrong.
It's just that...
I was wondering if there was a way
to sell my books better.
Make them more visible,
or offer them to people.
Your books are there, on display.
You know it's not easy.
Advertise them
so people buy them.
We could organize a reading
dedicated to your work.
Weren't you writing a new book?
Wouldn't you have a job for me here?
What kind of job?
I don't know...
In administration
or coordination.
My daughter is going to university.
I need money.
We are a small organization.
Almost everyone
here is a volunteer.
We have a hard time finding funds
for the poetry festival.
You could teach
at the poetry school.
But I have to talk to Efran,
he is in charge.
He'll be here soon, he will be with you.
We could talk to him about it.
Three-time winner
of the National Poetry Prize,
Vorgine Prize
for his first novel,
City of Buenos Aires Prize
for his second novel,
Julio Estrada Essay Prize,
among many other distinctions.
His work, engaged
in Latin American reality,
explores its roots
and denounces its social
and political mechanisms.
Efran Mendoza
is one of the most revolutionary voices
in Colombian literature.
Good evening.
Thank you very much for being here.
Thirty years ago, Alonso and I,
with some friends, founded this house.
It hasn't been easy.
In my case, my many
occupations prevent me
from dedicating the time
I would like to it, but...
Seeing you tonight
overflowing with love for poetry
is truly wonderful.
I am also delighted to see here
these talented young people
from our poetry school.
I am very honored to be
their mentor this year.
I want to dedicate this poem to them.
The arts are stratified,
reserved for the elites.
True artists create
for the sake of creating.
Of course, one must eat,
but in order to continue creating.
Tell that to a child
from a poor neighborhood,
without education,
without access to art.
Yes, I agree.
You, for example, you had an education,
you are privileged.
A girl growing up in poverty,
at 15,
already has two or three children.
Do you think she's going to think
about writing poetry?
No. Something should be
done about early pregnancies,
but that doesn't exist.
Art doesn't stop bombs.
Poetry doesn't stop war.
Perhaps...
But art, poetry, can
foster a better society.
I don't know, scar,
don't take this the wrong way,
but I doubt you have the qualities
to teach at the poetry school.
What qualities?
We know you.
You know me?
Let's do the reading
dedicated to your work.
Would you like to go on television?
You could do
a promotional interview.
Yes, an interview.
You would reach more people.
Don't you think?
Hello everyone.
We are delighted to be with you.
On the program today,
music, dance, poetry.
Welcome to What Mornings!
Let's start with our first guest,
Don Arnulfo Vlez, the mayor of Sopetrn.
He has come to talk about the magnificent
and delicious Fruit Festival
which will take place
from January 20th to 24th.
Mr Mayor, hello and welcome.
Hello. Welcome everyone
to the Fruit Festival!
We also have
a very special guest.
scar Restrepo, a recognized poet.
Winner of the National Poetry Prize
from the Pepe Sixto Aguinaga
Cultural Center.
has come to share
his beautiful poetry with us.
Let's start with a beautiful love poem
for all our viewers?
- About love?
- Yes, the kind that touches hearts.
While scar looks for the perfect poem,
let's welcome a figure
of urban music, JB.
The song we've been listening to
since the beginning of the show
is his new track,
Wet my Jacuzzi ,
which already has 80,000 views
on his YouTube channel.
It's true, I constantly reinvent myself
for my fans.
- That was bullshit!
- TV doesn't show poetry!
- It's disrespectful.
- It is what it is.
- What do I have to do with that?
- It is what it is.
I don't know
I think that...
What do you want
How do you do it?
How do I do what?
To you, am I a good poet?
To you, I have no talent, right?
You had something.
You were passionate, tormented.
And you managed to write
two or three nice things.
I thought I would be better,
at my age.
Better how? More recognized?
I failed.
The problem isn't recognition.
The problem is you.
You are a poem,
a rather sad one, I would say.
Do you want me to tell you the truth?
You won't change,
you can't change.
You are the way you are.
And you have big demons inside you.
You might be like Kafka,
or Jos Asuncin Silva,
one of those crazy people they recognize
after their death.
But for that,
you should have written
a fucking brilliant poem,
and that, frankly,
you haven't done yet.
You would sell more books
if I were your agent.
I would introduce you
to the right people.
I should have killed myself at 30.
You should write poems
about war, violence,
poverty, indigenous people,
the Amazon, queers...
All those things that
Europeans like about us.
He has a point.
Listen to this poem, I wrote it.
'How bright the moon is
Round like a fruit
'If it fell
It would crush you, you piece of...'
scar, why are you doing this to me?
Don't come here, please.
- Sorry.
- What are you doing?
Sorry.
Don't apologize to me,
don't do this to me.
Sorry for being like this.
For forcing you
to put up with such a father.
I try.
You don't have to try anything.
I'm fine.
I want to help you.
No need, don't worry.
I'm very sensitive lately.
Listen, I have to go.
- Can you leave first?
- Okay.
You're going to make a fool of me
in front of William.
I'm ashamed,
he was so nice to you.
I told him you were sick.
And that you'll be there on Monday
to teach your classes.
And if you don't go,
I'll pack your bags myself.
scar! Open up.
Suffering.
The half-light.
What can be said about the half-light?
Wouldn't it be the twilight
at the trembling dawn of the solar day?
Black holes where everything is forgotten
in the voracity
of engulfed jaws.
Planets enslaved by the cold.
A silence that spreads...
over closed moons.
Any questions?
What about poetry?
Poetry!
Poetry is...
Do you know any poems?
- Have you written or read any poems?
- Sir.
- She writes poems.
- You write poems?
Love poems, for the boyfriend?
About what?
Yurlady, show him.
Are all these poems yours?
Yes, there are poems
and other stuff that I write.
- Are the drawings yours too?
- Yes.
Do you also live
in deep sadness?
Are you melancholic?
No. Sometimes I want to write
when I feel like that.
Do you read?
A little.
Sometimes.
What do you read?
I don't know.
- I like Pizarnik.
- Alejandra Pizarnik?
'Alejandra, Alejandra
'I am underneath, Alejandra'
A teacher made us read her books,
and I really liked her poems.
- She's the one who taught you?
- More or less.
Do you want to be a poet?
What would you like to be?
I don't know.
I like doing makeup...
Styling hair...
I'm learning to do nails.
Things like that.
- Can I borrow this notebook?
- Okay.
"My room is tidy
"My room is clean
"My room is colorful
"Pink
"Purple and green
"Colors of dreams
"Dreams imprisoned in this room
"The walls are of cold concrete
"The floor tiles
are white and shiny
"But a stain tarnishes a corner
"It will never go away
"It will always stay there
"Home and prison
"Refuge and trap
"My room and me--
we are one and the same thing."
I have to take some exams.
scar!
What exams?
"During the Renaissance,
"Aristotelian authority was rejected
"and debated at the end
of the Middle Ages.
"The...
"The humanism of this period had
a fundamentally...
"'Neoplatonic' orientation."
Wouldn't you like to go to university?
- I don't know. Maybe.
- Why maybe?
- At home there are other priorities.
- What priorities?
Who do you live with?
With my grandmother, my uncle,
my little brother,
my two other sisters
and my nephews.
That's a big family.
Do all your brothers and sisters
have children?
- Yes.
- Are they much older?
More or less.
- Maicol is the oldest. He is 22.
- 22 and already a son?
- And your sisters?
- What?
- Are they mothers too?
- Yes.
- Veronica has two children.
- How old is Veronica?
20, I think.
- And Karen has a son.
- How old is Karen?
- 17.
- 17?
She drools over her boyfriend.
He already knocked her up.
My mom also lives with us,
but she only comes on Sundays
because she works for a family.
Is she a maid?
- You don't have children?
- No.
PART TWO - MAGNUM OPUS
They are good.
Very, and she has a lot of them.
What do you want to do?
I don't know.
I feel like she has
something special.
I should do something, right?
Like what?
I don't know.
Don't you have that prize?
A scholarship for young poets?
- She didn't copy them?
- No, they are hers.
Bring her.
- Would she join the poetry school?
- I would like to meet her first.
I'm already teaching her.
I was thinking more of...
a prize or a scholarship
or some other form of help.
We have the poetry festival prize
awarded to a promising young poet,
which includes a little money
and the publication of the poems.
Could she compete?
Only the students
can compete for this prize.
- Bring her and we'll see.
- I don't know, Efran.
If this girl has talent,
why not help her?
But you will bring her
and take her back.
We can't take that on.
We don't have a dime.
I don't know.
I have to ask my grandmother.
Do you want me to talk to her?
- Did you tell your mother?
- No.
We have to ask her mom.
She comes on Sundays.
- You are her teacher?
- Yes, ma'am.
- Will she get a prize?
- Maybe, if she participates.
Money?
- Yes, ma'am, money.
- How much?
I don't know.
- Aren't you eating lunch?
- I'll be right back.
I can't take her, with my knees,
and I have to take care of the kids.
I can take her.
If we don't have to pay anything...
Things are bad, we don't even have
enough to buy an egg.
Do you want to go?
Honey, don't be silly,
they're going to give you some money.
We shouldn't waste the opportunities
that the Lord offers us.
Thank you. Karen,
the baby is crying. Veronica!
Turn down the volume.
He is very ugly.
Yurlady!
Professor, excuse my outfit.
- Edilson, I'm the uncle.
- Nice to meet you.
- Sorry, I'm looking for my things.
- Go right ahead.
"Hello, Giant
"I admire you, Giant
"You are so tall
that you are friends with the moon
"The birds live in your hair
"Can you see my house from up there?
"Have you ever caught a shooting star?
"Does your rough skin feel
my kicks?
"How did you celebrate
your 900th birthday?
"Is that why
you have all these rings?
"You never answer my questions
"But we remain friends
"If a girl
"can be friends with a tree"
- scar, she is fantastic.
- Right?
I would like her to read
at the opening of the festival.
- And compete?
- Of course.
I even think we could
do an interview with her
to promote the festival.
It's a very beautiful story
that deserves to be told
and what you are doing for her
is magnificent.
I don't know, they are weird.
- Didn't you like it?
- I don't know.
They loved you.
Are you a poet?
I try.
Why are you doing this?
Bringing me here?
Because you have a lot of talent.
But how can that help me?
It can help you enormously.
Here, you can cultivate your talent.
They can help you,
you can win the prize.
Art can help you find...
a different path than...
that of someone like you.
- Someone like me?
- Yes.
Someone...
with few opportunities in life,
who risks dropping out of school
because of things like...
Having children...
What is wrong with having children?
- Do you want to have children?
- Yes.
- Right away?
- Well...
Right away, I don't know...
Maybe.
Later. You need to think,
focus on your future.
You could be a great poet.
Why would I want to be
a great poet?
Can you make a living from it?
Didn't you like the pie?
I want to bring it to my nephews.
Cheese?
Yes, or Hawaiian.
Four, is that possible?
Two cheese
and two Hawaiian, please.
- Do you sell bagged milk?
- Yes.
- Is this poem thing true?
- What?
That I can win over a girl
with a poem
- Yes.
- How?
- Tell me who it is.
- Carolina.
- No, not her.
- Who?
She's not from the school
Does it have to be a love poem?
Can I write about something else?
- Of course, about what?
- My mother or my sister.
- You're crazy about Angela.
- Not at all.
- The one with the braids.
- Not her.
- Write her a poem to win her over.
- Not her.
- Hello.
- Professor, how are you?
- Good, and you?
- Good, thank God.
I wanted to tell you something.
I have some
very comprehensive encyclopedias.
They have all the information
you need.
I didn't finish high school,
but I read a lot.
I can tell you the capital
of any country. Ask me.
- Is Yurlady here?
- I think she went out.
These encyclopedias are gathering dust,
but they are in perfect condition.
Shall I show them to you?
- Edilson, don't bother the professor.
- I'll bring them.
Professor, I wanted
to thank you for the groceries.
God bless you.
You can't imagine how we live.
Edilson bought a huge TV on credit,
even though we are very poor.
He hasn't even paid
the first installment.
- Is Yurlady here?
- She is with her friend Natalia.
- Did she know you were coming?
- I had told her.
I'm going to be honest with you.
She is talented, but lazy.
You have to push her for everything.
The slightest thing stops her.
- That's not true!
- It is true.
- Professor...
- Are you giving them away?
No, whatever you are willing to give.
Are you not coming?
Now?
Yes, we are late.
I don't know if I can.
Why not?
I have to take care of my nephews.
Your grandmother didn't say anything.
Can you come for a moment?
I'll go tomorrow.
Tomorrow?
No.
You have to make an effort, sacrifices.
Think about your future.
Where do you want to be
in 10, 20 years?
Do you want to be better or do you want
to paint your nails with your friend?
Let's try for a few more days.
If you don't like it, I won't insist.
But if we try,
we try seriously. Okay?
Do you have 10,000 pesos?
For what?
For a purple nail polish
with glitter.
Hi Yurlady, how are you?
I'd like to introduce you to Frida,
cultural attach
of the Netherlands embassy,
who helps us a lot
with the festival.
I told her that you were
going to read your poems
on opening night.
Ur-ley?
I hear a lot about you.
Yurlady.
Very connected. You and me.
Thank you.
I like poetry because it allows me
to express what I feel.
YURLADY GUERRERO - YOUNG POEI like to write poems
about things that happen to me.
She's had this
since she was a little girl.
That's why it's very important for us
that she is supported.
DAMARIS PALACIOS - AUNIf we support them, with resources,
they can succeed
in expressing themselves artistically
without falling into violence.
In our city, there are boys and girls
from all neighborhoods
EFRAN MENDOZA - POET AND WRITER
even the poorest, with a lot
of talent and few opportunities.
Thanks to our poetry school,
we seek to make art
a tool that promotes social change.
It's magnificent, moving!
What beautiful work you are doing
with this poetry school.
And now that you are here,
to promote the poetry festival,
I would like to ask Yurlady a question.
How does it feel to have
the opportunity to read your poems
in front of such a large audience?
Well, I am very happy.
It's wonderful, really.
What do you like most?
The opportunity I am being given.
And to learn.
Yurlady, what is your dream?
You could read any of them.
All your poems are very beautiful.
But you know what?
None of them are striking enough
for the opening of the festival.
You could write one
about more serious subjects.
For example
the problems in your neighborhood,
the lack of opportunities,
your skin color...
Do you understand?
I think her poems are very good.
Very, but we have to think
about the audience we are addressing.
How to reach a wider audience
and move them.
It could touch the jury more
and help you win the prize.
It would be a poem about you,
about what you represent socially.
I don't think so.
She likes to write simple things.
scar, you are a poet,
you know about poetry,
but you have no idea what
art represents to the public.
And that is precisely why
your work is not, how to say.
Very recognized.
It's not a question of writing
a political pamphlet,
but of inserting into the subtext
of your poetry, which is magnificent,
a subtle layer of important themes
that appeal to people,
telling them what they want to hear.
It will make you an even more
incredible poet than you already are.
Are you going to invite anyone
to the reading?
I don't know.
My mother has to work,
and my grandmother has to
take care of my nephews.
My sisters don't really like it.
Maybe my brother,
but he is busy too.
And your father?
- You don't have one?
- He doesn't live with us.
- But do you talk to him?
- He left when I was very little.
Where is he?
I don't know.
- And wouldn't you like to talk to him?
- No.
Before, it made me sad.
Now, I don't feel anything anymore.
I expect nothing.
And it doesn't even make me angry.
- You don't love him?
- No.
I have a daughter.
She is almost your age.
Her name is Daniela.
Does she live with you?
No, with her mother.
But do you go see her?
Sometimes.
To tell the truth,
she doesn't like me very much.
And I understand her.
Why doesn't she like you?
I haven't been the best of fathers.
Do you love her?
A lot.
But I have been...
quite...
problematic.
I am making an effort.
Why problematic?
I don't even know.
I haven't been very...
How to say?
Normal.
I don't think it's very fun
to have a father like me.
I am not normal.
If your father came back for you,
could you love him again?
I don't think so.
No.
Your father is outside.
Are you coming out
or should I tell him to come in?
What you lent me.
When is the exam?
Next week.
How do you feel?
I don't know.
Are you studying?
Yes.
I can help you.
No, thank you.
I wanted to apologize
for last time.
It's nothing.
I am very proud of you.
Thank you.
If you fail,
I will pay for university.
scar, no.
I know you're very mad at me.
I'm not mad at you.
You don't feel anything?
What should I feel?
I'm changing.
This time, it's different.
Okay.
You don't care. Do you?
scar, what do you want me to say?
You are a child.
Sorry.
Do you hate me?
I pity you...
I have to go back to studying.
"When art frees itself from the regulatory
sphere of its aesthetic proposition
"through social and financial control,
"insofar as it claims the supremacy
of its established powers
"the artist is an autonomous being,
and the work is even more so.
"'Claims' is equivalent
in this text to...
"A: To fight,
B: To deny,
"C: To reach,
D: To oppose."
A: To fight.
Did you find the right answer?
I'm better
at reading comprehension.
I keep logical reasoning
for the end,
- I don't have time.
- It'll be fine.
If I fail, I'll kill myself.
No, it's not that bad.
If you fail, you'll start again.
Grandma is alone
when you're not here?
It's my natural state.
Yolanda comes sometimes,
but she often stays alone.
I could keep her company.
If you do that,
I'll help you study.
"I ask her: "How are you?"
She doesn't even look at me
"I don't know what to do,
she fascinates me
"If she just said: "Hi, Elkin",
I would be happy
"I would offer her a rose
and take her to the pool
"She is tall and beautiful,
and her name is Carolina"
Thank you, Elkin.
Very good.
You are inspired, but you could take this
more seriously, write something else.
- I only came up with that.
- More rigorous.
I don't know if Carolina
will be thrilled with your dedication
You only like Yurlady's poems.
- Excuse me, what?
- Nothing.
- I heard you.
- You only like Yurlady's poems.
That's not true. I give you
comments to help you.
You don't say anything to her.
- Do you want to read?
- How would I know if it's good?
- Let Yurlady read...
- The poet.
- The poetess.
- Son of a bitch.
- What?
- You heard me.
- Let's calm down.
- She insulted me.
Is it an extracurricular activity?
Why wasn't I informed?
She has enormous talent.
I'm helping her.
It's delicate.
You must follow a protocol.
Write a letter
specifying the type of activity
at what time, where,
and signed by the parents
And there would be no problem.
Now, as for
what happened in class,
let's not make a big deal of it.
Talk to them
and get them to reconcile.
Alright.
I don't want to go anymore.
You don't want
to read at the poetry festival?
Well...
Impossible.
She was thrilled on television.
She doesn't want to.
She never wanted to.
She will be the first to read.
Everyone wants to hear her.
The people from the Dutch embassy
are delighted.
Tell her it's important
for her and for her future.
- Why don't you tell her yourself?
- Because she is here thanks to you.
Look what you've done for her.
It's your masterpiece,
your Magnum Opus.
The most beautiful poem
you have ever written.
Listen...
Buy her a pretty dress
and get some groceries for her family.
There you go!
Oh really?
I did it
- You're cheating.
- No.
I'm not cheating.
I won.
Goodbye Dad.
Goodbye.
"Poets, like sad warehouses,
"have a whole assortment of ghosts.
"Of ghosts?
"The city is so big,
and I'm looking for you."
"Remember, woman.
"At your music box show
"they don't come to admire you
but to be admired.
"Don't forget.
"They are
nothing but merchants of defeat.
"Monarchs of failure.
And you, their playground."
"What would I be
if I were less black?
"If I were less hungry
"If my future was secure
"If peace reigned in my neighborhood
"And if I walked there with a light step
"Without fear in my heart
"Without burning questions
"Without a world that spies
"Without borders that blind
"But I am all of that
"And all of that made me strong
"Every shadow, every struggle
"Every dream I pursue
"Under this sky without promises"
Can I have some more chicken,
please?
This piece too, please.
Thank you.
Look, two.
Can I take one of these flowers?
I think so.
You can take it when we leave.
- Cheers! Who wants some?
- Me.
- Yurlady, no, not you.
- Just one glass...
Just one.
Let her have a drink
to celebrate.
- And your glass?
- I'm not drinking.
Cheers!
We are paid less.
As for us, they took our lands.
We have to have children
and keep the house.
- Your traditions have been wiped out?
- Has anyone ever touched your butt?
- Take care of the husband and children.
- Is that what your women are for?
Instead of reading poetry,
you should be sweeping.
- You call yourself a poet.
- And I'm proud of it.
- Poet!
- I represent my community...
Cheers!
- What are you doing here?
- I'm listening to poetry.
Very beautiful. I loved the little girl's
poem.
I'd like to introduce you
to my new partner, Baldomero Muoz,
director of a law firm.
Champagne!
Cheers!
Not everyone recognizes
a good poem or a good poet.
It takes sensitivity to detect
poetry where you don't expect it,
under the stones, in the street.
It's harder than writing it.
Poetry is everywhere,
in the most mundane words.
Not everyone sees it.
You have to know how to look.
I'm not talking about a sunset
or a rainbow. No, sir.
What enters a black hole
disappears, it sucks everything in.
I'm not talking about
throwing things in there.
It sucks in time, absorbs it,
grinds it down like a blender.
I got interested in that.
Do you know what a black hole is?
We don't know what's beyond it.
It could be God, a parallel
universe, the past or the future.
- Myth is the comfort of the ignorant.
- Do you know what you're talking about?
How are the classes going?
Good.
A new talent?
No.
Other attributes then?
What?
Asses, boobs!
Ah, no.
Do you want some?
A CLEAN BATHROOM SPEAKS
WELL OF THE PERSON WHO USES IShit.
She's drunk.
- We have to take her to the hospital.
- No, we'll get in trouble.
Should I take her back?
Better wait for it to pass.
I'll be right back.
Do you want to throw up?
Throw up.
She is heavy.
Can you help me?
Efran!
What happened?
Fucking hell.
My God!
What happened to her?
Yurlady, can you hear me?
- What?
- She is drunk.
- Someone gave her something.
- What?
We don't know,
she was lying there...
What did we do?
She is alive.
My God.
- Let's take her to the hospital.
- Is Edilson asleep?
- He hasn't come home.
- And Maicol?
I have a car.
If you want,
we can take her to the hospital.
What happened?
- She got drunk.
- Drunk?
- How old is she?
- 15.
15? So young
and you let her drink alcohol?
This gentleman brought her back drunk.
- Are you the father?
- No, I am her teacher.
I am her grandmother,
and she is her sister.
Her teacher?
- You were with her?
- We were at a poetry festival.
She read her poems,
then started drinking.
I brought her back.
You let her drink?
No. She started drinking
with her friends.
Did you know?
She was supposed to be at a school party,
but she didn't come home.
Until he left her there.
Well...
We were at a table
and someone brought a bottle.
Did you drink?
Yes, I think so.
Sit down.
What else do you remember?
Why do you have marks
on your body?
You have minor injuries,
marks from a blow or compression.
Did you fall?
I had to carry her to the car,
then to her house.
We will keep her
under observation until tomorrow.
She is very dehydrated.
Only one person
can stay with her.
scar.
PART THREE - ART WILL SAVE US
Hello. Excuse me.
This is Doris Rodrguez.
If you don't know her,
she's the school psychologist.
Hello.
- Hello.
- Hello, sir.
Hi, girls.
Hello.
Sorry, we are eating.
How is Yurlady?
Very bad. Dehydrated. Intoxicated.
Very weak.
- She's sweating, she's throwing up.
- We are sorry.
We didn't know.
The teacher did this outside
the school and without authorization.
It wasn't a school activity?
How could you let this teacher
take her out of school?
- Actually...
- It is also your responsibility.
It shouldn't have happened.
We are here to prevent this kind
of situation from happening,
but you'll understand
that it's difficult.
And sometimes,
things escape our control.
Could I speak to Yurlady
to evaluate her quickly?
We just brought her back
from the hospital, she is sleeping.
If you had seen
how he brought her
and left her in front of the house.
And he was leaving.
If Karen and I hadn't seen him,
he would have run away.
- He left her there?
- Yes.
At two in the morning, and he left.
- You didn't know he had taken her?
- No.
He was nice,
he brought groceries,
and he bought her things,
to support her
because she was very talented,
They even interviewed her.
But you...
Why did you let him in too?
I work all day.
I told you he came to invite her
to read poems at school.
That she didn't really like it
but she didn't dare say no.
It has nothing to do with school.
Let's not tell stories.
He was very nice.
We trusted him because
he said he was a teacher.
But the truth is,
she has strange marks on her body,
and we wonder
if he did something to her.
No.
She got drunk
and he brought her back.
- How do you know?
- Knowing Yurlady...
- But what marks?
- Bruises on her back.
Hi, Yurlady.
HUG ME
How are you doing?
Do you want to sit down?
Do you remember
what happened last night?
Do you think scar could
have done something to you?
How can you be so sure?
Do you know him well?
Did he say things to you
or behave inappropriately?
Or not?
You have to prove to me
that he didn't do anything to her.
I feel like
he was trying to seduce her.
What kind of teacher goes
to a student's house, buys her things,
then gets her drunk,
and leaves her like that.
For what purpose?
It's very serious,
and as a mother, we must be suspicious.
Do you know him?
Can you guarantee me
that he is not a pervert?
What happened?
I warned you
that there were rules to follow.
- How is she doing?
- We won't tell you.
- Is she okay?
- She is disturbed.
She doesn't remember anything.
The young people from the poetry school
- will confirm they all got drunk?
- Yes, of course.
Her mother is very angry
at us and at you.
She is talking about pressing charges.
You must state very clearly
that you acted without consent
and without the knowledge
of the institution.
And we have to relieve you
of your teaching position.
Mr William, I need this job.
My daughter is going to university.
You should have thought of that
before acting the way you did.
- No, listen to me.
- You left me alone.
I told you to wait for it to pass.
I went to get a room
so she could lie down.
Right?
- Why didn't you tell me?
- I don't know,
but you took her.
So what?
You should have given her water,
broth...
Anything, except what you did.
You made them drink.
No. I said they could drink
one glass of champagne, no more.
You were responsible for them.
Alonso.
Let's talk to the kids from the school
to clear up what happened.
They are angry with you.
You showed them your ass.
My ass?
You were discussing black holes
or I don't know what.
You pulled down your pants and said
"Look at this black hole."
- No! I did that?
- You made a huge mess.
Why did you take her like that?
With your reputation?
What did you do to my sister?
What did you do to my sister?
Calm down, son.
- I want to know what happened.
- Nothing.
Last night was the opening
of our festival.
She read her poems,
then she started drinking
with her classmates.
You gave her alcohol?
She is 15!
I told her not to drink.
Why did you leave her
in front of the house like that?
It looks fishy.
It looks very suspicious.
And those marks on her body?
No, I just wanted to help her
write her poems.
Help her?
What do you want?
The truth.
- That is the truth.
- Do you want money?
Help!
- Tell me what you did to her!
- Help!
Help!
Tell me what you did to her!
Bastards!
You will all end up in prison.
Sons of bitches!
- You left her? What did you do to her?
- Nothing.
You're going to talk to this guy,
negotiate,
offer him money if necessary.
You brought her,
it's your responsibility.
Let's go clear this up with the kids.
It has nothing to do with us.
I'm holding this place together
and I'm not going to let you
destroy everything.
scar! scar!
Efran, let me talk to them.
- scar, go away.
- I need to talk to them.
- Rapist!
- When is this going to stop?
- Let's calm down.
- We won't calm down. Misogynist,
- you showed us your ass.
- I don't remember.
You have a hairy mole.
I dance, I dance for Yurlady,
for those who are gone.
I dance for all of us,
I dance because you do nothing.
You are killing us.
There is violence.
There is violence!
scar, go away, please.
Let me go!
BUKOWSKI
No...
What happened?
William called me.
So?
Not now, Yolanda.
I don't want to talk about it.
That girl wants money.
- What are you going to say to Daniela?
- About what?
Daniela was here with Mom
when William called.
Did you tell her?
- She heard.
- Heard what?
- scar...
- Women are evil, I know them.
She is very angry and very sad.
I'll explain it to her.
She knows you. You will never change.
I've changed. It's a misunderstanding.
We don't care.
You always end up ruining everything.
Daniela doesn't like
her friends seeing her with you.
She's embarrassed
when they see you drunk.
- She's my daughter.
- And?
- I want to be part of her life.
- You've never been part of her life.
And she doesn't want to talk to you.
Don't make her suffer, leave her alone.
- Go live your life, scar, leave us.
- Go away!
- Daniela.
- Go away! Don't bother me anymore!
I hope you die
and I never see you again.
Go away, scar!
What did you say to Daniela?
But, William.
scar doesn't do these kinds of things.
I'm not saying scar hurt her.
- It's Yurlady's family.
- What an idiot.
Some students say
that scar taught drunk
and that he took Yurlady to his home.
That's not true!
Who says that?
- Some students.
- They're lying. Ask Yurlady.
She also seems to doubt you.
The kids from the Poetry House
visited her
and told her that you showed them
your private parts.
Yolanda, I appreciate you
but it was a mistake
to accept your brother,
given his reputation.
I have to hang up. Goodbye.
scar, what did you do?
I may have a reputation
as a drunk, a crazy person.
But I acted for Yurlady's sake.
I didn't do anything to her
and Daniela needs to know that.
You let her drink alcohol,
participate in these activities
without her mother's permission.
You are responsible too.
Maybe we were too permissive
with this alcohol thing,
but you have to understand.
They are young, they were partying.
But when scar brought Yurlady
to the Poetry House,
we agreed that he was
the one assuming responsibility.
I was supposed to bring her
and take her back, nothing more.
I told you I'd accept her
if you took responsibility for it.
And it was logical for us
to assume
that scar had the authorization
of the family and the school.
You told me to bring her
even though she didn't want to.
We forget that the most delicate part
of this situation
is the way
you took her out of the hotel.
She was drunk, what could I do?
You saw.
I saw when you took her out of the hotel.
And you left her there?
I shouldn't have left her
in front of the house. It was a mistake.
- I got scared.
- Why were you scared?
You left her
because you felt guilty.
- One might think so.
- And the bruises?
I had to carry her.
The medical report says...
"Marks probably caused
by blows or compression."
It doesn't say it's
because you carried her.
I carried her like this.
It's not necessary...
What are you doing?
- I'm showing you.
- Sit down.
You have no witness and no proof
to corroborate your claims.
Let them press charges, I don't care.
I want the truth to be known.
Our institution has already taken the step
of relieving you of your position.
We must now
accompany the student and her family
to the prosecutor's office
and the Ministry of Education.
We shouldn't even be here.
You created this mess.
But we don't want legal problems
in the middle of a poetry festival.
The Dutch might
withdraw their funding
if this gets out of hand
with all these rumors.
The solution is very simple.
Talk to the family.
Tell them what happened.
Apologize to them.
Convince them to withdraw their complaint.
To apologize would be to admit my guilt.
I just want my daughter to know
that I didn't do anything.
If you manage to convince the family,
Yurlady could talk to your daughter...
Excuse us...
She could tell your daughter
that indeed, nothing happened.
No one wants a trial.
- You have the most to lose.
- Let them sue.
Why bother with things
that aren't worth it?
scar,
help us.
Do it for the Poetry House.
You are part of it.
You want this to stop?
Look at these girls from the poetry school
with their hairy armpits,
all angry. It sucks.
Poetry is not what it used to be.
Poetry used to be more...
I don't think the girl's family
will agree to talk to scar.
- Hi!
- Hi.
- Is your grandmother here?
- Grandma!
I can't believe this man
just wanted to help her write poems.
Listen, gentlemen.
We can't be sure
that he did something to her.
But in Colombian law,
there is a principle called
"beyond a reasonable doubt"
What does that mean?
That based on the existing evidence,
there can be a "certainty"
that he did something to her.
- Do you understand?
- Thank you very much.
Ma'am.
We understand you...
perfectly.
We understand that you are angry.
I would be too.
But I can guarantee you one thing.
We always seek, through poetry,
to promote the well-being
of young people like your daughter.
That is what poetry
represents for us.
And what happened is not poetry.
It does not represent
this wonderful expression
of which your daughter
is a worthy representative.
We saw talent in her,
and we wanted to support her.
Listen to him.
Let scar explain to you
what happened.
scar!
No. No, I don't see
sincerity in his eyes.
scar, tell them everything.
Make an effort.
Ma'am...
It is the truth.
- Yurlady, you know it.
- No, she doesn't know.
She doesn't know who you are.
She doesn't know you well enough.
And you don't know her either.
Ma'am, my daughter is very angry with me.
I need her to know--
What your daughter already knows,
is that you are a pervert.
As for me,
you haven't convinced me otherwise.
- But Mom.
- You, be quiet.
You are grounded.
We know scar, we know
that he's a walking disaster.
He's a bit stupid, clumsy,
a bad poet.
But, as Ral Gmez Jattin said,
people like scar
only hurt themselves.
Everything you imagine
he could have done to Yurlady,
it never happened.
No, I do not see
sincerity in his eyes.
- scar is ready to pay you.
- What do you mean?
In compensation for the inconvenience
you have suffered.
- Are you offering me money?
- Don't get defensive.
We may be poor,
but we have dignity.
- Wait, how much?
- What do you mean, "how much"?
- One million.
- One million?
What a lack of respect.
It's like asking me to sell my daughter.
- It's very serious.
- No, Mom.
Come and talk.
Yaneth, come!
What are you doing?
I don't know how,
but you will pay me back everything.
Is there an ATM around here?
Yes, sir, at the corner of the street.
- Yaneth, think about it.
- No need.
This man came to explain
that he didn't do anything to her.
Don't get stuck on this.
We need this money.
- Go away, Yurlady.
- He didn't do anything to me.
A trial is long and solves nothing.
Think of the little one.
- She has already suffered a lot.
- Yes, Mom, I've suffered enough already.
- It's not for you.
- For all of us.
Half is mine.
I am the victim!
Two million and it's a deal.
Impossible.
scar doesn't have more.
There are things to consider.
That is the maximum.
Fine, okay.
But one more thing.
We need a guarantee
that you won't do anything after this.
We sign a document
stating that everything is settled.
It would be more appropriate
to make a video.
- What?
- A video?
Where Yurlady accepts full responsibility
for what happened,
that no one did anything to her,
that she got drunk by herself,
and apologizes
for all the inconvenience.
- Apologize?
- No, Efran...
- To show where?
- No, not to show it.
- It's a guarantee that protects us.
- I don't think that's necessary.
I wrote to my lawyer,
and he suggested it to me.
It will be a bit more then.
No, impossible. That's all we have.
I, Yurlady Guerrero,
assume full responsibility
for what happened.
Nothing was done to me.
No one did anything to me,
at the poetry festival party.
No one did anything to me,
at the poetry festival party.
I got drunk all by myself
and I apologize
for the inconvenience caused.
And I wish good luck
to Poesa Viva and its festival.
And I wish good luck
to Poesa Viva and its festival.
Perfect.
Do you remember everything?
Efran, I don't think that's necessary.
Just give them the money.
What if you were with her in the video?
Come closer, please.
Yes, the children in the back.
Go ahead.
Edilson, you too, please.
Yes. Go ahead, please.
Get closer so you're in the frame.
- Ready?
- Ready.
- Rolling.
- Alonso, wait.
- What?
- scar, go away.
It's not necessary.
We're trying to fix the mess you caused.
- Do you see another solution?
- Why force them to do this?
You're making things worse for yourself.
Let me fix things.
Didn't you want to fix things
with your daughter?
- Ready?
- Ready. Rolling.
I, Yurlady Guerrero,
take full responsibility
for what happened.
What are you doing?
- Move.
- Give me my phone.
What are you trying to do?
- Give me that phone.
- Don't film.
- What about the money?
- No video, no money.
- Give it to them, I'll pay you back.
- Where are you going to find the money?
- I can do it.
- You see? She wants to do it.
It doesn't affect me at all.
I don't care about you.
- You're not recording anything.
- Give me the phone.
- Give it to me.
- No.
- Give it to me.
- No.
- Give it to me.
- No.
We're almost done.
- Give it...
- No.
No!
We're almost done.
Get out!
Get out!
- No video, no money.
- I don't care about your money! Get out!
You are the most mediocre poet
I have ever seen in my life.
I wish for you to be the greatest poet
in this country
and that you write
many beautiful verses.
Sorry.
PART FOUR - A JOYOUS POEM
"In light of the unfortunate events
that recently occurred
"during our poetry festival,
"the Poesa Viva Cultural Center clarifies
that it has no ties
"with the poet scar Restrepo.
"He will not be invited
to any of our future events.
"We strongly condemn
any inappropriate behavior
"that would violate the values
and principles of Poesa Viva
"as a safe space aiming for
the well-being of our community,
"a place where love, tenderness,
and poetry reign
"in their strongest sense."
Sons of bitches.
- I'm going to kill myself.
- Don't start with that.
I can't take it anymore.
I've failed at everything. I give up.
I give up on poetry, on life.
I give up on everything.
- I'm going to jump out the window.
- Jump! I'm watching you.
You don't even have the courage.
- You don't understand.
- As if I didn't know you.
You are completely predictable.
You're going to get drunk, aren't you?
What did I do
to deserve so much misfortune?
You love playing the victim.
It looks like you enjoy it.
You're just a coward
who didn't have the courage to face life.
It's hard for everyone.
No one is responsible
for what happens to you.
You're the one who took it upon yourself
to fall into this black hole,
convinced that you're a sad poet
carrying a fatality and a curse.
Wake up, get out of that hole.
You don't need those people.
They are not your friends.
You may be a drunk,
but you're noble.
And you have me.
Do you want something to eat?
Thank you, Mom.
Hi, Daniela.
You don't know me.
But I know your father.
First of all, I wanted to apologize
for taking your notebook.
I thought it was pretty.
And since mine was almost full,
I thought I would use it.
Sorry.
That's where I found your address.
Secondly,
I heard that you hate your father
because you were told
he did something to me.
He didn't do anything to me.
He wanted to help me.
He wanted me to become a great poet,
but that was his dream,
not mine.
But he made me realize
that I don't like poetry,
or at least not the poetry
as he showed it to me.
I just like to write what I feel.
And draw.
My dreams are simpler.
To have a house,
a job,
help my mother,
my grandmother,
my brothers and sisters.
Things like that.
I don't think you need much to live well.
Your dad told me about you.
The distant relationship you have.
I understand you.
I have a father like that too.
And it's not your fault.
We have to carry the burden
of having these fathers
for the rest of our lives.
The only thing I can assure you,
is that he loves you very much
and that he is trying to change.
I really hope he succeeds
and that this letter
will help you not to hate him.
Well,
that's all.
I wish you the best in your life.
See you later. Yurlady.
- Hi.
- Hi.
- Is this your father's?
- Yes.
I prefer the other one.
A yellow one, that was somewhere.
Have you read this one?
No? Let's see.
LAS FLORAS
Read this poem.
Your father wrote it
when I was pregnant with you.
"My beautiful little flower
"That I planted in the garden
"I want to protect and love you
"But without water and without soil
I'm afraid of ruining you"
This little flower is you.
Hi.
Hi.
It's nice here. Do you come often?
Sometimes
They have Bukowski.
I don't like Bukowski.
I don't hate you.
And I don't want you to die.
But I don't want us to be closer.
I don't think it's good for me.
Honestly,
I want things to be like before.
To talk from time to time
or when I go visit Grandma.
When it's strictly necessary.
You know what I think?
You are a good poet.
But I don't care.
- Just be a good person.
- I tried.
It's not enough.
What do you want,
for me to love you?
You can't have something
if you haven't fought for it.
- I'm fighting, it's not easy.
- Not enough.
Get help.
Prove to me that you've changed.
But don't drag me down with you.
Come see me when you've really changed.
Okay.
I understand.
I love you very much.
Goodbye.
Yurlady...
I hope I'm not bothering you
with these words.
I promise you these will be the last.
I want to thank you for the letter
you wrote to my daughter.
Today, I felt like writing a poem.
I hadn't done that for a long time.
I want to share it with you.
I wanted it to be a less sad poem.
Less melancholic.
Like yours.
I don't know if I succeeded,
but I was surprised that I liked it.
scar!
- Call an ambulance.
- What's going on?
- Call an ambulance.
- What's wrong?
The poem I wrote goes like this:
'Here I am
'A man
'An old-fashioned dinosaur
'Carrier of grievances
'Deserving condemnation
'Fragile dreamer
'But don't lose faith yet
'In this sad poet
'Who is trying to write
'A joyous poem'
A POE