Born: 28 November 1836, Panama
Died: 16 August 191
Country most active: Nicaragua, Guatemala
Also known as: Amelia Denis
Amelia Denis de Icaza was a prominent Panamanian Romantic poet. She holds the distinction of being the first woman to publish her verses in Panama.
In her early years, Denis de Icaza exhibited a profound affinity for literature, engaging in the craft of poetry. As the inaugural female poet of Panama and a unique figure in the Romantic period, her poetic works are characterized by themes of patriotism, youth, melancholy, and love for her homeland. Aligned with the first generation of Panamanian poets, including Gil Colunje, Tomás Martín Feuillet, José María Alemán, and Manuel José Pérez, she shared a common educational and cultural background, shaping the cultural and spiritual formation of this generation.
Denis de Icaza’s poetic expression became a vehicle for Romantic sentiments, embodying nationalist spirit and love for nature. Her poems, marked by simplicity, deep emotion, and a profound social sense, stood out. During her youth, she married and lived in Nicaragua for many years. Upon her return to Panama, she discovered her country under American control, evoking in the poetess feelings of sorrow and rebellion. In 1906, she composed the poignant verses of “Al Cerro Ancón,” a lasting reminder of her sentiments. Her poetry resonates with strong patriotism, sincerity, and carries a powerful political and social commentary, expressing her displeasure with the creation of the Canal Zone, where Panamanians were barred.
Denis de Icaza spent nearly two decades in Guatemala, contributing to newspapers such as Trabajo and Bien Público under the pseudonym Elena. Later, she resided in León, Nicaragua, from 1894 until her demise in 1911, forming a close friendship with the renowned poet Rubén Darío.
Her notable works include “Hojas secas” (1926) and poems like “Dejad que pase,” “Al Cerro Ancón,” “Patria,” “Amor de madre,” “A la muerte de Victoriano Lorenzo,” “El llanto de una hija,” “Un ramo de reseda,” and “A Panamá,” among others. Her legacy endures through her distinctive blend of patriotism, sincerity, and fervent social and political expression in poetry.