José Victorino Lastarria
Antaño i Ogaño: Novelas i Cuentos de la Vida Hispano-Americana
"Antaño i Ogaño: Novelas i Cuentos de la Vida Hispano-Americana" by Lastarria is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The work portrays various aspects of life in Hispanic America, highlighting themes of love, desire, and social struggles through richly crafted narratives. The opening story, "El Mendigo," introduces the character of Alvaro de Aguirre, a mendicant who carries a deep history and melancholy, setting the tone for the exploration of personal and societal issues in the collection. The opening of "Antaño i Ogaño" presents a chance encounter between the narrator and the titular mendigo alongside the Mapocho River, which becomes a catalyst for revealing the mendigo's tragic backstory. As the narrator attempts to engage the mendigo in conversation, Alvaro shares his life tale filled with hardship, betrayal, and lost love that deeply affects his present state. The poignant imagery used to describe the natural beauty surrounding the characters contrasts sharply with Alvaro's despair, effectively drawing readers into his plight while fostering an appreciation for the cultural vistas of Hispanic America.