La Baraonda

A novel written in the late 19th century. This work depicts the turbulent lives of two young women, Nora and Evelina, who navigate their ambitious dreams amidst the chaos of a boisterous household led by their guardian, Matteo Cantasirena. Themes of aspiration, societal expectations, and personal struggles are likely at the core of this narrative. The opening of the novel introduces us to Nora, who bursts into the home, frustrated by hunger and the absence of their servant, Gioconda, who has gone to run an errand. As Nora's impatience grows, we learn about her aspirations of rising above her circumstances, contrasting with Evelina's more subdued existence. Cantasirena, whom they call ''zio,'' is portrayed as a complex figure with a flair for grandiosity yet deeply entangled in financial turmoil, reflecting the precariousness of their lives. Evoking a blend of personal dynamics, societal critique, and the relentless pursuit of one's dreams, the beginning sets an engaging stage for the unfolding drama.