FALLING IN LOVE BEFORE RETIRING: THE FOUR SHADES OF MARTÍN SANTOMÉ

Abstract

This article analyzes La tregua of Mario Benedetti. The study examines the different phases or rather the shades for which Martín Santomé, main character of the novel, happened after an unexpected change upset his life: the death of his beloved Laura Avellaneda. The text is divided in four parts. The first one alludes to the topic of the retirement and how Martín Santomé faces this moment with a certain degree of obsession. The second one is focused on the importance that the character of Laura Avellaneda has in Martín's life. The third one studies the elements that make their affective relationship something significant for both of them. Finally, the fourth one examines the motif of desolation that emerges as a result of Avellaneda’s death.