Storytelling

The central theme of the novel is storytelling, which underscores the novel’s exploration of identity, memory, and resistance. The characters’ lives are intricately linked by the stories they tell, hear, and preserve, reflecting the profound impact of narrative on personal and collective history.

Storytelling in the novel serves as a crucial coping mechanism for many characters, helping them navigate their traumatic pasts and present struggles. Manuel’s mother, for instance, invents the imaginary place of Alfa Calenda to comfort him amidst the violence of his father. This act of storytelling provides an emotional escape and a sense of hope. Similarly, Alma’s ability to hear the stories of the objects and people around her emphasizes the omnipresence and significance of narrative. Through Alma, the novel suggests that every element of life holds a story, contributing to a larger tapestry of human experience.

The oral transmission...