The deteriorating condition of Hemingway's former home in Cuba has received a lot of press attention over the past few years. In 2005, the National Trust for Historic Preservation even went as far as to label the Finca Vigía one of the eleven most endangered historic places. While both Cuban and American preservation experts are working together to reverse the effects of time on the Finca Vigía, a significant political obstacle stands in their way.

Money is desperately needed for the repair of the Finca Vigía and for Hemingway's boat, the Pilar. Due to the U.S. trade embargo against Cuba, Americans are not permitted to contribute financially to these projects. Without American financial assistance, Cuban restoration workers doubt that they can restore the house properly. Thus Hemingway's beloved Finca Vigía has become embroiled in a game of "political football," as some have called it.

Others believe that the fight to preserve the Finca Vigía has nothing to do with politics. Gladys Rodriguez, a former curator for the Finca Vigía, told NBC News recently: "Hemingway is a cultural bridge between both our people. It's not political, no I never think in that way. It's a cultural thing only." I agree that the fight to preserve the Finca Vigía has little to do with politics, but the ultimate fate of this literary treasure will likely have everything to do with politics.

To learn more about the Finca Vigía preservation efforts, visit the web site of the Hemingway Preservation Foundation.