Jota Martínez Galiana’s novel 'Malpaís' confronts political corruption, violence, and the erosion of journalism in Valencia. The book draws on real scandals and challenges the idea of compassion for those in power.
Political corruption and the normalization of violence in Valencia are at the heart of 'Malpaís', the first novel in Valencian by writer and journalist Jota Martínez Galiana. The book, set in a region governed by conservatives, uses fiction to dissect the consequences of unchecked power and the erosion of public trust. Galiana’s narrative follows Núria, a left-wing journalist, and Alberto, a right-wing politician, as they navigate a society reeling from a deadly disaster that leaves dozens dead—while officials evade responsibility and ignore victims’ families.
The novel’s backdrop is a Valencia where public services falter, students protest poor conditions in schools, and the regional broadcaster Canal 9 crumbles under political pressure. Galiana frames his story as a 'ucronía', blending real events with alternative history to question how far citizens might go when pushed to the limit. The presence of a fictional terrorist group serves as a device to explore what could happen if someone decided enough was enough, echoing the unresolved anger from past scandals.
Galiana draws direct lines to the corruption and waste that marked the administrations of Zaplana and Camps, referencing the Gürtel case and controversial contracts like the Formula 1 deal. He argues that such actions would be unthinkable in the private sector, but became routine when public money was at stake. The author’s frustration is clear: he sees a pattern where those in power act with impunity, shielded from consequences, and ultimately lose the right to public sympathy.
Violence, both overt and systemic, is a recurring theme. Galiana challenges the notion that violence is always external, suggesting that everyone harbors the potential for it, especially when it serves their own side. He also questions the narrative that violence never achieves change, pointing to historical revolutions as examples where force became the only recourse against entrenched injustice. The novel does not excuse violence but insists on examining its roots and the circumstances that make it seem inevitable.
Media decline is another central concern. Galiana, who previously worked for outlets like EL PAÍS and the SER, laments the deterioration of journalism in the age of social media and partisan 'opinólogos'. He pays tribute to a time when journalists faced consequences for publishing falsehoods, contrasting it with today’s environment where misinformation spreads unchecked—even in respected publications. The fate of Canal 9, and its successor À Punt, is emblematic of this decay, as public broadcasters become tools for political manipulation rather than impartial information.
Galiana’s critique extends to the current government, which he accuses of political violence and relentless attacks on the central administration. He argues that some politicians have forfeited the right to compassion, citing recent events where judicial power was allegedly used to eliminate rivals, such as the case involving Mónica Oltra. The author sees a cycle repeating itself, with little learned from past tragedies like the Valencia metro accident, and voters continuing to support those responsible.
Despite his harsh assessment, Galiana does not claim all politicians are the same. He singles out Joan Ribó as an example of responsible leadership, while acknowledging that every party can harbor bad actors. Ultimately, he insists that the public must remember their role in granting power and demand accountability from those who govern.
The themes explored in 'Malpaís' resonate beyond literature, reflecting ongoing debates about political ethics and media integrity in Spain. Similar tensions have surfaced in other regions, as seen when far-right parties gained ground in Catalonia, prompting concerns about the future of democratic norms. For more on the political shifts affecting Spain’s regions, see this analysis of recent parliamentary changes: how far-right parties are reshaping Catalonia’s parliament.
Published by Companyia Austrohongaresa de Vapors, 'Malpaís' stands as both a literary work and a pointed commentary on the failures of political and media institutions in Valencia. The novel’s exploration of violence, responsibility, and the limits of compassion offers a stark reminder of the consequences when public trust is eroded and accountability is lost. As Spain continues to grapple with these issues, Galiana’s work adds a critical voice to the national conversation.
