This article will examine literature regarding the banana conflict which occurred when the United Fruit Company arrived and worked to create a monopoly, generating wealth and a pattern of decadence that would have dark effects throughout the society, from local oligarchies to the region's peasants. In keeping with this theme, the article presents analysis of Flor de Banana (1965), a novel examining these realities. This work of literature, penned by Joaquín Beleño, lies between testimonial and historical genres. In Beleño's characteristic voice of denunciation, the novel exposes a reality that few in the nation dared to comment on. It examines an unfortunate episode in our history that is particularly relevant now, as we celebrate the nation's bicentennial, and considering current attempts to exploit our natural resources under the pretext of better days for the country and its people. It is vital now that the current generation see the potential consequences of these illusory economic benefits, specifically that most of the wealth generated tends to flow not to the region that produced it but to transnational companies that exploit humble workers.