The Mangy Parrot

This engaging tale chronicles the misadventures of Periquillo Sarniento, revealing the societal issues of colonial Mexico in The Mangy Parrot.

In The Mangy Parrot, Mexican journalist and publisher José Joaquín Fernández de Lizardi, facing imprisonment for his critiques of the Spanish administration, sought a creative outlet in 1816. By disguising his biting commentary as a work of serial fiction, he aimed to circumvent government censorship. Unfortunately, his efforts were short-lived; after only three installments, Spanish authorities halted publication, leading to Lizardi's imprisonment once more. The complete narrative remained unpublished until after his death, and a decade following Mexico's independence from Spain.

Despite its tumultuous history, The Mangy Parrot has emerged as a cherished classic in Mexican literature, resonating with generations of Latin American readers. This translation by David Frye brings Lizardi's vibrant storytelling to life, presenting the adventures of Periquillo Sarniento, the narrator and Lizardi's alter ego. Through a series of humorous misadventures, the novel critiques the ignorance and corruption that plagued Mexican society on the brink of independence.

With vivid portrayals of colonial street life and insightful observations on race and ethnicity, The Mangy Parrot serves as a comic masterpiece that reflects the socio-political landscape of its time. Often compared to Don Quixote, it stands as a significant work of world literature, showcasing Lizardi's sharp wit and unwavering spirit in the face of oppression.