El mar que nos trajo - Griselda Gambaro - Capitulo 22 Parte 2/2
The School of Bonifati and Its Influence on Natalia
Introduction to the School
- The narrative introduces a benevolent fortune that could have led to a different educational experience for Natalia, highlighting the informal school setup in Bonifati where local houses served as classrooms.
- A young teacher from a neighboring village would arrive on a donkey, sharing stories about historical figures like Garibaldi and Malatesta, fostering an environment of secretive learning.
Ideological Underpinnings
- The teacher instilled ideas about social justice, emphasizing that the right to earn one's bread is not merely granted by the wealthy. This concept resonates with Natalia's internal struggles against societal norms.
- Despite these teachings, Natalia harbors inexplicable aversions towards certain men, particularly after her encounters with Isabela.
Encounter at the Door
Tension and Indecision
- As Natalia approaches two men from Bonifati, she feels discomfort due to their inseparable bond; this union seems unhealthy to her.
- Upon recognizing her at the door, the men display surprise but quickly offer warmth and hospitality despite their disorganized surroundings.
Observations of Disarray
- The chaotic state of their room—filled with tools and personal belongings—heightens Natalia's sense of hostility. She reflects on her earlier decision to prevent Isabela from visiting them.
Reading the Letter
Emotional Responses
- Nino offers Natalia a chair amidst their cluttered space; she hesitantly accepts before delivering a letter that strips away any pretense of anxiety while maintaining her pride.
- After reading the letter silently, Nino’s eyes reveal deep sadness and kindness. His expression mirrors that of another man present who remains more concealed behind his mustache.
News of Death
Impactful Revelation
- Nino delivers grave news: "Your father has died." This statement elicits little emotional response from Natalia; she acknowledges it with minimal commentary before leaving resolutely.
Reflections on Family Dynamics
- As she processes this news, thoughts about familial ties surface. She questions Giovanni's identity as he claims kinship through blood but feels distanced from him.
Internal Conflict
Struggles with Identity
- While caring for Luisa, thoughts swirl around her father's absence. She grapples with feelings toward his death—indifference mixed with resentment over past abandonment.
Memories Resurface
- Vivid memories emerge regarding her father’s affection during childhood juxtaposed against his abrupt disappearance from her life.
Confronting Grief
Coping Mechanisms
- In moments of reflection following Luisa's coughing fit, Natalia contemplates how grief manifests differently for everyone. Her indifference towards her father's death highlights unresolved emotions tied to family abandonment.
Daily Life Continuity
Emotional Reflections on Loss and Memory
The Impact of a Letter
- The protagonist struggles to comprehend the significance of a letter, which evokes deep emotions tied to their father. They read it aloud in their father's voice, highlighting a connection that transcends time.
- Sitting on the edge of the bed shared with Isabella, the protagonist feels an overwhelming sense of nostalgia and sorrow, indicating a struggle between personal responsibilities and emotional turmoil.
- Conversations with his father during this reflective night reveal unresolved feelings about abandonment and longing for connection, as Isabella sleeps nearby.
Memories of Childhood
- A poignant moment arises when the protagonist recalls a childhood photograph of his father’s daughter at three years old, contrasting her innocent past with her current strong-willed demeanor.