It had been years since I last immersed myself in a book by Gabriel García Márquez. Thanks to participating in a book club, I decided to explore his literary universe once again. I remembered how much I enjoyed his unmistakable style; he really envelops you with descriptions that are unique in their genre. He expertly weaves each chapter and connects the characters within the story, making the reading experience deeply enjoyable and enriching.
Love in the Time of Cholera tells the lingering love story of a man named Florentino for Fermina. Although no specific dates are mentioned, the historical details help us place the events between the late 19th and early 20th centuries in Colombia, a perfect backdrop that reflects the social and cultural complexities of the time.
Back then, marriage was often more about social convenience than love. Women, bound by the rules of their parents and later those of their husbands, found little room for self-determination. Fermina Daza, despite being a strong-willed woman, was constrained by social expectations—a reality many women of her time shared.
Double Standards and Male Freedom
The novel highlights how men enjoyed greater freedom to live as they wished without harsh judgment. While some men adhered to moral values, they generally had more liberty in the eyes of society to do as they pleased, showcasing a clear double standard compared to the restrictions imposed on women.
Love and Obsession: The Heart of Florentino
Florentino falls in love with Fermina when they are both very young. Their relationship, sustained through a prolonged exchange of letters, lasts several years. Initially convinced of her love for Florentino, Fermina eventually realizes her feelings were not as deep and decides to end the relationship. Despite this, Florentino cannot overcome his love, maintaining an obsession that lasts decades, during which he waits for any sign that Fermina still thinks of him.
Marriage for Stability Versus Marriage for Love
Fermina marries Dr. Juvenal Urbino, and although their union is not born of romantic love, they learn to love each other in their own way, achieving a stable marriage—the ideal sought after at the time. The key to marriage was not happiness but stability, under which premise Juvenal and Fermina build their life together.
Respect in Obsession
Despite his obsessive love, Florentino respects Fermina’s personal space, observing her from a distance without invading her personal life or marriage. Although his promiscuity and involvement with minors are problematic aspects of his character, it is crucial to contextualize these behaviors within the social norms of the time to fully understand the complexity of his actions.
Reflections on Machismo and Social Evolution
As a Colombian, I recognize that machismo has been prevalent in our culture. This book reflects a particularly “machista” era and region of Colombia. Understanding the historical context is essential, as it influences the decisions and lives of the characters.
Widowhood as a Synonym of Freedom
An intriguing aspect is how widowhood was seen as a form of freedom for women, offering a new beginning that was more socially accepted than divorce. This point reflects the social restrictions on women and how the death of a husband could signify a release from those constraints.
Conclusion: A Reflection on Love and Society
In conclusion, Love in the Time of Cholera is a beautifully crafted literary representation that, despite including questionable aspects, underscores Gabriel García Márquez’s merit as a master storyteller of love. What do you think about love stories from those times?
