Maya mythology
Some of the most enduring memories of his early life when his father taught him to read are these: when he discovered an unknown universe of old locomotives emitting steamy clouds as they passed through town; and an early acquaintance with Maya mythology and legends that later on shaped his poetic imagination. Especially memorable were the Mayan Aluxes, small fantastic creatures living in abandoned ruins and cemeteries and stories of the Chilam Balam, the sacred book of the ancient Maya.