La Esfinge Maragata: Novela

A fictional novel likely written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around Rogelio Terán, a young artist who embarks on a journey to Madrid, coincidentally encountering two mysterious women on a train: a beautiful young lady and her elderly companion. As the story unfolds, themes of beauty, aspiration, and the contrast between social classes emerge through Terán's interactions with the two women, particularly the alluring yet troubled ''Mariflor.'' At the start of the novel, the scene is set aboard a night train where we meet the protagonist, Rogelio Terán, who is intrigued by the young woman sleeping opposite him. As he observes her, he becomes enamored with her beauty, contemplating her identity and life. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of his reflections, as Terán grapples with his artistic aspirations and emotional sensitivities linked to femininity and beauty. The young woman, initially depicted as a serene beauty, is soon revealed to have a deeper, tragic presence that captivates the artist, hinting at the complexities of her circumstance. Through vivid descriptions and lyrical passages, the opening establishes a tone filled with mystery that invites readers to discover the intertwined destinies of Terán and Mariflor as their lives converge.