Ortiz's work is an essential cornerstone in the development of Afro-Hispanic literature of the diaspora, since the depth and breadth of his writings provide insights into some of the major cultural issues and dilemmas that have plagued Ecuadorian, and to some degree, much of Latin American society in general, for centuries. However, the significance of Ortiz's writings extends well beyond the borders of his native country because he addresses problems that continue to resonate across the Americas and the international arena as well, such as identity, ethnicity and "place." </sp |