Andrea’s Journey: A Year in Barcelona
Andrea’s Arrival in Barcelona
Andrea, full of youthful illusions, arrives in Barcelona at night. This initial journey into darkness symbolizes the unknown, filled with mystery and a sense of foreboding. The primary setting is a gloomy house on Aribau Street, representing oppression and the frustrated hopes of a formerly bourgeois family struggling after the war.
The Inhabitants of Aribau Street
Antonia: The maid, Antonia, has a perpetually unpleasant demeanor and a watchful eye over the household. Indifferent to the suffering of others, her hysteria only surfaces after Roman’s suicide, marking the collapse of her own existence. She acts as Roman’s confidante, fueling his manipulations.
Gloria: A woman of questionable morals, Gloria prioritizes her own desires over her family and ill child. Andrea fears developing similar behaviors. Gloria’s presence provokes conflict, particularly with Juan, and symbolizes a lack of depth and ambition.
Angustias: Rigid, domineering, and stubbornly religious, Angustias clashes with Roman, creating a constant source of discord. She represents traditional values but maintains a hypocritical secret affair. Angustias attempts to influence Andrea but ultimately pushes her away.
Juan: A hardworking but untalented man, Juan suffers from professional frustration and personal imbalance. He acts impulsively yet displays moments of profound submission. Juan’s volatile nature is particularly evident in conflicts concerning Gloria or his perceived failures.
Roman: A handsome, arrogant man with a mysterious past, Roman initially charms Andrea. However, his true personality, marked by artistic frustration and a destructive mania for control, is revealed in his attic sanctuary. Roman’s cynicism and manipulative behavior have caused significant suffering to those around him.
Time and Transformation
The story unfolds over a year, culminating in Andrea’s second trip to Barcelona. This time, she arrives in daylight, symbolizing hope and newfound maturity. The outer spaces of Barcelona, including the university, Ena’s house, and Montcada Street, represent freedom and happiness, contrasting with the oppressive atmosphere of Aribau Street.
Andrea’s Departure
Andrea leaves Barcelona with a more objective perspective, shedding the romanticism of her initial arrival. The house on Aribau Street remains a symbol of the family’s economic and moral ruin, while Andrea’s experiences throughout the year have shaped her understanding of the world.