Home, Temuco, Chile, 1911-1920

Neftalí’s family home in Temuco, Chile is where most of the novel is set. It begins there, specifically in his room, by the window from where he intently watches the world pass him by. The home is usually in a state of anxiety because of Father’s demanding, overbearing presence. The only time the family relaxes at home is when Father travels for work. Father often hosts businessmen and shopkeepers from town for dinner, where the children are expected to be quiet and polite. Neftalí keeps outdoor treasures in a collection in his room along with a collection of his favorite words. Eventually, when Neftalí is 16 years old, Father ransacks his room and burns his writing. Soon after, Neftalí moves away to university.

Beach, Puerto Saavedra, Chile, ~1913

The beach in Puerto Saavedra is the place where Neftalí’s character begins to shift from a...