The Element of Surprise/Motif

The element of surprise serves as a motif in The Divorce because the plot of the novella is driven by unexpected meetings and ironic situations. Aira focuses on how these surprises impact the characters. Enrique, the main character, is surprised first by being drenched with water, then by recognizing his mother (whom the author does not name), Leticia, and Kent at a cafe. Additionally, a surprise awaits the reader when learning the truth about what actually happened to Enrique.

Kent describes Enrique’s reaction to his initial surprise, fright. He writes that when Enrique was hit by the water: “He stood there transfixed by surprise, fright and wetness” (6). Enrique’s fright dissipates quickly when he recognizes Leticia. Kent notes that he watches as Leticia makes a “psychological readjustment” (7) to remember from where she knew the man. A few minutes later, Enrique is...