How does Cristina Garcia use imagery in The Aguero Sisters?

Through Ignacio's narrative, the reader is provided with glimpses of Ignacio's life leading up to the tragic events of the Zapata Swamp. These flashbacks attempt to further humanize Ignacio in the eyes of the reader. It becomes difficult to focus on Ignacio as a cold-blooded murderer, when presented with images of a hard working, learned man of science. A man committed to preserving the natural history of Cuba. He is a devoted son willing to sacrifice his own plans of completing college in order to care for his ailing father and mother. Family continues to be the focal point of the Agüero family.