El mar que nos trajo - Griselda Gambaro - Capitulo 35

The Emotional Turmoil of Natalia

Teresa's Departure and Its Impact on Natalia

• Teresa's decision to leave deeply affected Natalia, who felt a profound sense of loss in April's pure air. She had previously confided her worries about money and her mother's illness to Teresa.

• Despite the physical distance after Isabella and Natalia moved, Teresa continued to visit daily, bringing food that reminded Natalia of their shared past.

• The absence of Teresa left a void in Natalia’s life; she mourned not just for her friend but also for the memories tied to shared meals and laughter.

Isolation and Friendship Dynamics

• Natalia's pride prevented her from accepting new friendships or support, leading to further isolation as she dealt with Isabella’s emotional struggles without sharing her own.

• Isabella expressed a desire to work at the factory despite knowing the harsh realities; however, Natalia remained skeptical about her ability to succeed in such an environment.

Domestic Struggles and Marital Discontent

• José provided some protection for Isabella but was also a source of frustration due to his volatile nature. Isabella felt trapped by domestic responsibilities.

• As José returned home, Isabella hurriedly prepared for his arrival, revealing her anxiety over domestic duties and maintaining appearances.

Reflections on Marriage and Personal Sacrifice

• Natalia reflected on her marriage with Jacinto, recognizing it as unfulfilling. She grappled with feelings of resentment towards him for his lack of ambition.

• Jacinto’s weaknesses were highlighted: he squandered money on gambling rather than contributing meaningfully to their household.

Financial Strain and Emotional Burden

• The financial strain weighed heavily on Natalia; she felt trapped in a cycle of debt exacerbated by Jacinto’s irresponsible spending habits.

• Memories flooded back as she recalled happier times contrasted against her current struggles. Her relationship lacked intimacy compared to what she observed in others' lives.

Coping Mechanisms Amidst Hardship

• As pressures mounted, Natalia focused on mundane tasks like sewing while suppressing her emotions. This distraction served as both an escape and a burden.

• Managing finances became increasingly difficult; each month brought more bills that seemed insurmountable despite careful budgeting efforts.

Acknowledging Ignorance and Seeking Change

• Frustration grew over financial mismanagement; Natalia recognized that ignorance contributed significantly to her situation.

The Impact of Loss and Relationships

Seeking Help and Nostalgia

• The protagonist seeks assistance from Bonifati's men to learn about her father's death, reflecting on the irreparable nature of distance and death.

• She encounters Teresa, a girl reminiscent of her childhood friend, evoking feelings of nostalgia as she admires Teresa's academic achievements and confidence.

Interactions with Natalia

• Teresa timidly enters the kitchen at Natalia's call, feeling intimidated by Natalia’s brusque demeanor.

• When asked to read a shopping list, Teresa hesitates not due to illiteracy but because it feels out of place among mundane items like semolina and rice.

Tensions in Domestic Life

• Upon Yancinto's return that night, Natalia confronts him angrily about his actions; he responds with a nervous smile, indicating tension in their relationship.

• Yancinto tries to justify his need for a loan from the storekeeper under false pretenses regarding an ill child, showcasing desperation amidst financial struggles.

Financial Struggles and Deception

• Despite knowing they do not have an ill child, Yancinto manages to secure a loan through manipulation; this highlights his lack of prudence yet cleverness in navigating difficult situations.

• Natalia finds humor in Yancinto’s foolishness while recognizing the gravity of their situation—her laughter is tinged with irony over their precarious financial state.

Reflections on Relationships

• The narrative reveals Isabella’s emotional turmoil as she copes with José’s unpredictable nature; she wishes for more straightforward interactions rather than evasive apologies.