Entendre, explicar, fer : in memoriam Joaquim Molas (1930-2015) Edició a cura de Jordi Marrugat

The air within the hallowed halls of academia still resonates with the profound echoes of Joaquim Molas, a titan whose intellectual journey shaped the very understanding of Catalan literature. This volume, a gathering of minds and tributes, emerges as a testament to his enduring legacy, born from a solemn academic congress convened to honor his memory. It is an invitation to delve into the intricate tapestry of thought he wove, a journey of "understanding, explaining, and creating" that defined his scholarly life.

Molas, a figure of immense erudition, dedicated his life to illuminating the rich landscape of Catalan letters. From the quiet intensity of his early studies in medieval literature, he embarked on a pivotal shift towards the vibrant complexities of modern and contemporary works, a trajectory influenced by intellectual giants like Jaume Vicens i Vives. He did not merely observe literature; he engaged with it, dissecting its forms, tracing its historical currents, and revealing its profound connections to culture and society.

His contributions were monumental, guiding the monumental "Història de la literatura catalana" and curating "Les Millors Obres de la Literatura Catalana (MOLC)," projects that anchored the canon for generations. He was a collaborator in the seminal "Poesia catalana del segle XX," shaping the very discourse around modern poetic expression. His analytical rigor and boundless curiosity brought forth countless studies, each a meticulous exploration of literary phenomena, from the avant-garde movements to the nuances of individual authors.

To enter this collection is to walk alongside those who learned from him, who were inspired by his method, and who continue his intellectual quest. Each contribution, a thread in a larger tapestry, reflects the multifaceted brilliance of a scholar who not only interpreted texts but also understood the forces that brought them into being. It speaks to his unique ability to foster a vibrant intellectual community, where debate and discovery were paramount.

The essays gathered here explore the very principles that Molas championed: the meticulous act of understanding a text in its historical and cultural context, the rigorous process of explaining its significance and impact, and the ultimate creative act of forging new knowledge and perspectives. It is a celebration not just of a life lived in service of literature, but of a methodology that continues to guide and inspire. His spirit, characterized by an unwavering commitment to the depth and breadth of Catalan literary heritage, permeates every page.

Through these reflections, one perceives the vast scope of his influence, from his early days teaching at the University of Barcelona, his time as a lector in Liverpool, to his professorships at the UAB and back to the UB. His dedication earned him the highest honors, including the Premi d'Honor de les Lletres Catalanes and the Medalla d'Or de la Generalitat de Catalunya, accolades that merely underscored the profound respect and admiration he commanded. This volume, then, is more than a memorial; it is a living continuation of his intellectual endeavor, inviting readers to partake in the ongoing dialogue that was the essence of Joaquim Molas.