La Novena is a compelling novel by Marcela Serrano, published in 2016, that follows Miguel Flores, a university student arrested during a protest against Pinochet's dictatorship in Chile. Sent to an isolated agricultural area, Miguel faces solitude and hostility from the locals, except for Amelia, a middle-aged widow who owns the estate La Novena. As she welcomes him into her home, Miguel confronts his prejudices and begins to form a complex bond with her, challenging his views on culture and society. The story explores themes of isolation, political oppression, and the transformative power of human connection, making it a poignant read for those interested in Latin American literature and historical fiction.

Key Points

  • Follows Miguel Flores, a student detained during a Pinochet protest
  • Explores Miguel's isolation and relationship with Amelia
  • Addresses themes of political oppression and cultural identity
  • Set in an agricultural area of Chile during the dictatorship
gabi chaflo
198 pages
Language:Spanish
Type:Novel
Sociology
gabi chaflo
198 pages
Language:Spanish
Type:Novel
Sociology
232
/ 198
«¿Quieres saber quiénes me han traicionado? Todos».
Producto de un accidente absurdo, Miguel Flores, es detenido en
una protesta contra la dictadura de Pinochet. Tras unos días en el
calabozo del cuartel policial es enviado a una zona agrícola cercana
a la capital, pero aislada de toda actividad política.
Sin recursos y obligado a firmar a diario en el retén de Carabineros,
sus días transcurren en soledad y con lo mínimo para subsistir. Su
presencia genera temor u odio entre los lugareños, salvo en Amelia,
una mujer de mediana edad, viuda y dueña del fundo La Novena.
Ella acoge al relegado, le abre las puertas de su casa y con ellas las
de un mundo cultural y social que representa todo lo que Miguel
más detesta. Poco a poco la relación entre ellos hace que él
cuestione sus prejuicios, en tanto que sus sentimientos pasan del
profundo deseo de odiarla a una atracción y un vínculo permanente.
Pero el azar y la actividad política de Miguel provocarán un giro en
extremo doloroso e irreparable para ambos.
Un conmovedor relato con el que Marcela Serrano nos interna en
los afectos de varias generaciones de mujeres que enfrentan el
desgarro de ser traicionadas y el de traicionar a su vez.
Marcela Serrano
La Novena
ePub r1.0
diegoan 23.05.18
/ 198
End of Document
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FAQs

What is the significance of the title La Novena?
The title 'La Novena' refers to the estate owned by Amelia, which becomes a central setting in the novel. It symbolizes a place of refuge and cultural exchange for Miguel, contrasting with his feelings of isolation and hostility from the surrounding community. The estate serves as a backdrop for Miguel's transformation as he navigates his complex emotions and prejudices, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of himself and others.
How does Miguel's character evolve throughout the story?
Miguel begins as a politically charged university student who is deeply resentful of the societal norms surrounding him. His arrest and subsequent isolation force him to confront his biases, particularly through his interactions with Amelia. As the narrative progresses, Miguel's feelings shift from hostility to attraction, illustrating his internal struggle and growth. This evolution highlights the impact of personal relationships on one's worldview, especially in the context of political oppression.
What themes are explored in La Novena?
La Novena delves into several significant themes, including political oppression, isolation, and the complexity of human relationships. The backdrop of Pinochet's dictatorship serves as a constant reminder of the societal struggles faced by individuals. Additionally, the novel examines cultural identity and the transformative power of empathy and connection, as seen through Miguel's evolving relationship with Amelia.
Who is Amelia and what role does she play in Miguel's life?
Amelia is a middle-aged widow who owns the estate La Novena. She plays a crucial role in Miguel's life by providing him with shelter and companionship during his isolation. Her character represents a bridge between Miguel's past prejudices and his potential for growth. Through her kindness and cultural insights, Amelia challenges Miguel's views and helps him navigate his feelings of fear and resentment.
What is the setting of La Novena and how does it influence the story?
The setting of La Novena is an isolated agricultural area in Chile during the dictatorship of Pinochet. This backdrop significantly influences the story, as it highlights the themes of political oppression and social isolation. The stark contrast between the rural landscape and the political turmoil of the time shapes Miguel's experiences and interactions with the locals, particularly with Amelia, who becomes a source of cultural and emotional support.
What is the main conflict in La Novena?
The main conflict in La Novena revolves around Miguel's struggle with his identity and beliefs in the face of political oppression. After being detained for protesting, he is forced into isolation, where he grapples with his feelings of anger and resentment towards the locals. The relationship he develops with Amelia complicates this conflict, as he must confront his prejudices and ultimately decide how to reconcile his past with his evolving understanding of human connection.
How does La Novena reflect the historical context of Chile?
La Novena reflects the historical context of Chile during Pinochet's dictatorship by portraying the personal and societal impacts of political repression. Through Miguel's experiences, the novel illustrates the fear and isolation felt by many during this tumultuous period. The interactions between characters serve to highlight the broader themes of resistance, resilience, and the quest for personal identity amidst a backdrop of societal turmoil.

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