Description
Flying High
Book Summary
A novel that explores the complex relationship between art, ideology, and survival in post-war Spain. The reader will accompany Ciriaco Párraga, a talented left-wing photographer who, after suffering persecution and imprisonment, receives a commission to portrait the dictator Franco himself. The work delves into the moral dilemma and restlessness of a man caught between his convictions and the need to survive, all set in 1940s Zaragoza. A story of affection, friendship, and love in times of fear.
What is it about?
The novel is set in Zaragoza in 1940, where Ciriaco Párraga, an excellent portraitist who has suffered persecution for his left-wing ideas, arrives. There, photographer Jalón Ángel takes him in and secures him a very well-paid commission: two portraits of Generalissimo Franco. The plot centers on Ciriaco’s profound internal conflict, as he must decide whether to betray his principles to ensure his survival. The story not only narrates this dilemma but focuses on the unease and fear of the characters, feelings that coexist with affection, friendship, and love, which become a fundamental support in the most difficult moments. Through this journey, the reader discovers the cultural life of the Aragonese capital and its figures, such as Pilar Bayona and José Camón Aznar.
Main Themes
- The moral dilemma between ideology and survival in a context of repression.
- The complexity of art and portraiture as a tool of power and resistance.
- Life in post-war Spain, marked by fear and persecution.
- Friendship, affection, and love as a refuge in the face of adversity.
- The figure of the photographer as both witness and participant in history.
Who is it recommended for?
For readers interested in historical and contemporary fiction novels that address the moral complexity of the Spanish post-war period. It is ideal for those who enjoy stories with a strong psychological component, focused on characters facing ethical dilemmas in contexts of oppression. It will also be attractive to those who appreciate plots set in Zaragoza and that explore the world of art and photography.
What this book offers
- A profound reflection on the internal struggle between conscience and the need to survive.
- An immersion into the cultural and social atmosphere of 1940s Zaragoza, featuring real figures from the era.
- A unique perspective on portraiture as an act of power and the figure of an artist trapped in contradiction.
- A story of affection and friendship that shows how love can be a mainstay in times of fear.
Technical Data
- Author: Jorge, Sanz Barajas
- Publisher: Xordica
- Language: Spanish
- Subject: MODERN AND CONTEMPORARY FICTION
- Collection: CARRACHINAS
- Binding: Paperback
- Publication Date: March 2021
- Number of pages: 272
- Weight: 429 g
Editorial Review
A work that stands out for its ability to explore the moral complexity of a character in a tumultuous historical period. The novel not only offers a solid and well-documented plot but also delves into the emotions and internal conflicts of its protagonists, offering a reading that invites reflection. It is a recommended choice for those seeking contemporary fiction with a historical background and a human and sensitive approach.