El mundo de Sofía | Capítulo 13 |
Chapter 13: The Postcards
Sofía's Camping Trip
- Sofía has not received any letters from her philosophy professor for several days, leading to a sense of anticipation and curiosity.
- John proposes a camping trip, prompting Sofía to consider the implications of being away from home. They prepare by packing essentials like sleeping bags and food.
- Sofía secretly desires to camp near the "mountain of the uruguayo," as it is close to a cabin that intrigues her but feels too timid to explore alone.
Arrival at the Campsite
- The girls set up their tent in a clearing by the mountain, enjoying a break from philosophical thoughts and engaging in light conversation.
- During their snack time, Sofía mentions an intriguing cabin nearby, which sparks John's interest despite initial reluctance.
Exploring the Cabin
- As they navigate through trees and underbrush, they find themselves at a small lake where the abandoned cabin stands.
- The cabin appears deserted with closed shutters; Sofía expresses curiosity about its history while feeling apprehensive about entering.
Discovering Secrets Inside
- After some playful banter about crossing water in a boat, they manage to reach the other side where the cabin door awaits them.
- Upon finding it locked, Sofía searches for a key among stones and triumphantly discovers one hidden beneath debris.
Unveiling Mysteries
- Entering cautiously into the cold dark space of the cabin, they use matches to illuminate their surroundings briefly before discovering it is empty.
- A candle is lit using one of their matches; this small flame symbolizes hope amidst darkness as they explore further inside.
Encounter with Enigmatic Postcards
- While examining an ornate mirror that seems magical, Llorona finds a box containing postcards dated from Lebanon.
- Despite warnings not to touch them, Llorona accidentally scatters them on the floor; these postcards are addressed to someone named High Modernak.
Revelations About Past Visits
- As Llorona reads through postcards revealing connections back to Alberto Knox and previous visits by Sofía herself, tension builds regarding what secrets lie within those memories.
Postcards from Lebanon
The Arrival of the Postcards
- The postcards are sealed in Norway, indicating a connection to the UN battalion. They are sent via military planes, suggesting a unique postal system in conflict zones.
Reading the First Postcard
- The first postcard expresses longing to return home and mentions working on military orders, hinting at the sender's commitment despite being away.
Secrets and Gifts
- The sender promises a significant gift for their daughter's birthday but maintains an air of mystery about it, emphasizing anticipation and emotional connection.
Reflections on War
- A poignant reflection on the absence of peace in Lebanon is shared, with a desire for reconciliation through the efforts of organizations like the United Nations.
Growing Tension
- The final postcard reveals an overwhelming urge to share secrets regarding the daughter’s birthday, highlighting themes of secrecy and familial bonds amidst uncertainty.
Discovery and Fear
- After reading all postcards, both friends express fear about their implications. They question who could have sent them and how they knew they would be there that day.
Mysterious Connections
- Discussion arises about whether postcards might somehow emerge from a brass mirror linked to past events or memories, introducing elements of magic realism into their narrative.
Departure with Secrets
- As they leave with the mirror, there's an atmosphere of suspense. Their journey back is marked by contemplation over what they've discovered and its significance.
Morning Reflections
- Upon waking up early, Sofia reflects on her image in the dew-covered mirror while contemplating their experiences with the mysterious postcards.
Reflections Amidst War and Peace
The Contrast of War and Peace
- A father from Jaén reflects on the devastation caused by war, contrasting it with his fortune to live in a peaceful country. He perceives the sounds of explosions as mere innocent firecrackers.
Family Dynamics and Secrets
- Sofía invites Llorona for hot chocolate at her home, while Llorona's mother questions the origin of a mirror they found. Sofía claims they discovered it near the mayor's cabin.
Historical Context and Personal Connections
- Llorona’s mother insists that no one has lived in that cabin for many years. Afterward, Sofía dresses in red for a national holiday, which proceeds normally despite underlying tensions.
Media Influence on Perception
- During an evening news report, Sofía watches coverage of Norwegian UN forces celebrating in Lebanon, pondering if one of those men could be her father.
Mysterious Correspondence