Bilingual Edition Valverdes sharp meditation on the state of mind of a nation reeling from its historical contradictions and moral failings is startling.Forchs consummate translation and instructive introduction provide a map to help readers navigate this powerful book.BooklistIn Fernando Valverdes Amrica sorrow is ancient. Mournfully lyrical politically sharp with a sweeping view of American roots dysfunctions and idealsas if from above and yet also from withinthis is a book that deconstructs the legacy of empire. From the Mississippi River to Fulton Avenue from slavery to lone wolf shooters Valverde grieves but does not wince away from all that is lost to greed and a culture of violence painting an urgent portrait of the thirst of America a smile satisfied to death.