Editorial Letras Cubanas - Mínima Narrativa No. 19 (cover designer: Raúl Martínez, cover illustrator: Manuel Rodríguez, editor: Maritza González, author: Miguel Collazo), "El laurel del patio grande," December 1978. Offset print, book.

The cover of "El laurel del patio grande" (The Laurel of the Grand Courtyard) features a striking geometric design by Raúl Martínez and Manuel Rodríguez, incorporating a traditional Cuban tile motif rendered in vibrant orange, purple, and red with intricate diagonal hatching. The diamond-shaped central pattern evokes colonial Spanish architecture and the iconic azulejo tiles found in Havana's historic courtyards, perfectly complementing the nostalgic themes of the narrative. The symmetrical design with its stylized birds and floral elements demonstrates the synthesis of Cuban decorative arts traditions with modern graphic design principles.

Published as part of the "Mínima Narrativa" series, this collection showcased brief, high-quality narratives selected for their poetic vibration and literary merit. The series aimed to bring significant literary pillars to a broader Cuban public, promoting contemporary reading while maintaining an accessible, dynamic format. Printed in December 1978 during the "Año del XI Festival," this edition exemplifies Editorial Letras Cubanas' commitment to fostering Cuban literature during the cultural flourishing of the late 1970s.

Miguel Collazo (b. 1936, Havana) studied at the prestigious Escuela de Bellas Artes "San Alejandro" and worked as both painter and writer. He participated in the Seminario de Dramaturgia at the Teatro Nacional and his play "La boda" received an honorable mention in the 1963 National Theater Competition. By 1978, he had published several narrative works including "El libro fantástico de Oaj" (1966), "El viaje" (1968), "Onotoria" (1973), and "El arco de Belén" (1977), while also working in the restoration department of the National Museum.