the harsh realities of life. The opening of the novel introduces a serene yet melancholic evening in Vilamorta, where Segundo García enjoys the tranquility of the landscape as he engages with the echo of a wall, demonstrating his whimsical nature. Alongside the picturesque description, we see hints of struggles within his family dynamics, particularly his father's expectations for him to embrace a more conventional career in law. As Segundo navigates his thoughts and aspirations, he also encounters Leocadia, whose backstory of hardship and longing for idealized love begins to intertwine with his poetic pursuits. This initial chapter sets a tone of introspection, inviting readers into a world rich in emotional depth and social commentary. (This is an automatically generated summary.)