The time Vargas Llosa mocked Jorge Ramos for 'inclusive language'

His stance against inclusive language was not an act of provocation, but a defense of linguistic coherence and logic.

The recent passing of Vargas Llosa in Lima at 89 years old has left a void in the cultural world. However, his legacy endures in his works and in his firm convictions on essential issues.

A laugh that said more than a thousand words

In an interview with Mexican-American journalist Jorge Ramos, Mario Vargas Llosa was questioned about the use of inclusive language, specifically about terms like "todes."

The writer replied with a spontaneous laugh, followed by a clear explanation:

"Language is something that is born naturally and certain rules are established over it. We have in Spanish a very clear inclusive masculine."

Faced with Ramos's insistence on whether this use wasn't sexist, Vargas Llosa was emphatic:

"That is a very dangerous path. Deeply denaturalizing language in the name of a misunderstood feminism... is nonsense that I am in no way going to approve."

A legacy of clarity and commitment

Mario Vargas Llosa, Nobel Prize in Literature 2010, was recognized not only for his vast literary work but also for his commitment to clarity and precision in the use of language.

In times where confusion and ambiguity threaten effective communication, the Peruvian's position highlights the importance of preserving the structure and rules that have governed Spanish for centuries.

His rejection of inclusive language is a reminder of the need to maintain the integrity of the language in the face of passing trends.

In honor of his memory, we remember his words and his commitment to truth and clarity:

"Denaturalizing language because it is considered sexist is nonsense that I am in no way going to approve."

Mario Vargas Llosa leaves us with an invaluable lesson: the defense of language is also a defense of culture and reason.