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Things We Lost in the Fire summary
Brief summary
Things We Lost in the Fire by Mariana Enriquez is a collection of haunting short stories that explore the darkness and violence lurking beneath the surface of Argentine society. It delves into the macabre and the supernatural, delving into the psychological and social horrors of everyday life.
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Table of Contents
Things We Lost in the Fire
Summary of key ideas
Exploring the Dark Side of Society
In Things We Lost in the Fire by Mariana Enriquez, we are taken on a journey through the dark underbelly of contemporary Argentina. The collection of short stories begins with The Dirty Kid, where we are introduced to a young boy who is obsessed with the city's sewers. His fascination with the filth and decay of the underground world mirrors the societal decay and corruption that Enriquez is about to explore.
In The Inn, we are introduced to a group of young friends who are addicted to a drug that makes them feel invincible. They spend their days in an abandoned inn, indulging in their addiction, and their nights in the city, where they are confronted with the harsh realities of life. This story serves as a stark reminder of the impact of poverty and inequality on the youth of Argentina.
Exploring the Supernatural
As the collection progresses, Enriquez introduces us to the supernatural. In Adela's House, we meet a woman who is convinced that her house is haunted by the ghost of a young girl. The story serves as a commentary on the impact of Argentina's dark history, including the military dictatorship and the thousands of desaparecidos, on its people.
In Under the Black Water, we are taken to a small town where the river is believed to be cursed. The story explores the impact of superstition and fear on the lives of the town's inhabitants. Enriquez uses the supernatural elements in these stories to highlight the very real horrors that people face in their everyday lives.
Exploring the Impact of Violence
Violence is a recurring theme in Things We Lost in the Fire. In Spiderweb, we meet a woman who is obsessed with the violent crimes committed by a young boy. She becomes convinced that the boy is possessed by a demon and sets out to exorcise him. The story serves as a chilling exploration of the impact of violence on the human psyche.
In Green Red Orange, we are introduced to a group of women who set themselves on fire in protest against domestic violence. The story serves as a powerful commentary on the prevalence of gender-based violence in Argentina and the extreme measures that women are forced to take in order to be heard.
Exploring the Human Condition
Despite the darkness that permeates the collection, Enriquez also explores the resilience of the human spirit. In Things We Lost in the Fire, we meet characters who, despite facing unimaginable horrors, continue to fight for survival. The collection ends with the title story, where a woman sets out to collect the teeth of the city's dead in order to create a monument to the forgotten.
In conclusion, Things We Lost in the Fire is a haunting and powerful collection that explores the impact of societal decay, violence, and the supernatural on the lives of ordinary people. Enriquez's unflinching portrayal of the dark side of Argentina serves as a stark reminder of the very real horrors that people face in their everyday lives.
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What is Things We Lost in the Fire about?
Things We Lost in the Fire is a riveting collection of short stories that delves into the eerie and unsettling aspects of Argentine society. Mariana Enriquez masterfully weaves together tales of supernatural occurrences, chilling murders, and societal horrors, all against the backdrop of political turmoil and social inequality. Each story captivates the reader with its atmospheric writing and thought-provoking themes, making this book a must-read for fans of literary fiction and psychological thrillers.
Things We Lost in the Fire Review
Things We Lost in the Fire (2016) by Mariana Enriquez is a captivating collection of short stories that explores the dark and unsettling aspects of contemporary Argentina. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- It delves deep into the psychological and social realities of Argentina, providing a thought-provoking and visceral reading experience.
- Enriquez's stories are unapologetic and raw, tackling themes of violence, loss, and power dynamics with unflinching honesty.
- The book offers a unique blend of magical realism and social critique, creating a haunting atmosphere that lingers long after the last page.
Who should read Things We Lost in the Fire?
- Readers who enjoy dark and thought-provoking literary fiction
- Those interested in exploring social and political issues through storytelling
- Individuals who appreciate atmospheric and emotionally intense narratives
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Book summaries like Things We Lost in the Fire
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Things We Lost in the Fire FAQs
What is the main message of Things We Lost in the Fire?
The main message of Things We Lost in the Fire is a haunting exploration of human nature in the face of darkness and despair.
How long does it take to read Things We Lost in the Fire?
The reading time for Things We Lost in the Fire varies depending on the reader's speed. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Things We Lost in the Fire a good book? Is it worth reading?
Things We Lost in the Fire is a captivating book that tackles themes of loss, desire, and transformation. It is definitely worth reading for its compelling storytelling and thought-provoking narratives.
Who is the author of Things We Lost in the Fire?
Mariana Enriquez is the author of Things We Lost in the Fire.
What to read after Things We Lost in the Fire?
If you're wondering what to read next after Things We Lost in the Fire, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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