17 Helena - Machado de Assis

Chapter 17: A Day Marked in Gold

The Emotional State of Mendonça

• The day is described as significant for Mendonça, marked with "gold letters and satin," indicating its importance.

• He experiences a surreal state, unsure if he is living reality or dreaming, reflecting his emotional turmoil.

• Upon returning home, he feels overwhelmed by glory and transformation, perceiving the world around him as magical.

Encountering Helena

• Mendonça's perception of the environment shifts; he feels ethereal sensations and hears unspoken words from roses.

• He attends a theater performance not out of desire for entertainment but to grasp the reality that seems elusive to him.

Conversations and Realizations

• An academic friend points out a woman in the audience, revealing her identity as Estácio's sister, nicknamed "Andorinha viajante."

• Mendonça reflects on how such nicknames can carry deep meanings without clear origins.

Internal Conflicts

• After leaving the theater, Mendonça grapples with feelings of envy regarding others' happiness while contemplating his own situation.

• He writes an impassioned letter to Estácio detailing his emotions and hopes for love.

News from Cantagalo

• Estácio receives troubling news upon returning from an excursion; it prompts him to leave immediately due to family matters.

• Despite being preoccupied with urgent business related to inheritance issues, Estácio expresses concern over Clara’s health.

Family Dynamics and Tensions

• As Estácio arrives at home late at night, he observes familial interactions filled with underlying tensions about impending loss.

• His return sparks mixed reactions among family members; they are aware of his absence yet remain focused on practical matters.

Conversation Between Estácio and Mendonça

Initial Interaction

• Estácio Mendonça expresses anxiety about discussing Helena, indicating a personal connection or concern regarding her.

• The atmosphere is tense; Mendonça attempts to break the silence by engaging in trivial conversation while preparing for a more serious discussion.

• Time feels slow as they navigate their conversation, highlighting Estácio's impatience and emotional state.

Discussion of Feelings

• Mendonça reveals his feelings of jealousy towards Verde, suggesting underlying tensions related to romantic interests.