Born: 28 November 1836, Panama
Died: 16 August 1911
Country most active: Nicaragua, Guatemala
Also known as: Amelia Denis
Amelia Denis de Icaza was a prominent Panamanian Romantic poet, and the first known woman to publish her verses in modern Panama.
In her early years, Denis de Icaza enjoyed literature and writing poetry. Because her father was an editor, she had opportunities to meet poets whose work he published. Her works are characterized by common Romantic themes, such as love of nature, youth, melancholy, and love for her homeland. As part of a generation of Panamanian Romantics, she helped to shape the cultural and spiritual formation of this generation.
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 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 due to American occupation.
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 death 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. In honor of her work, particularly “Al Cerro Ancón”, a large bronze statue in her honor was erected on Ancón Hill, which overlooks Panama City.