Butterfly Tongues

In a small Galician town, young Moncho embarks on his eagerly anticipated first day of school. He enters with a mix of excitement and trepidation about the harsh educational methods he fears he will encounter.

Upon arrival, Moncho meets his teacher, Don Gregorio, who quickly eases his fears. Unlike other educators, Don Gregorio embodies a kind and gentle approach to learning, sparking Moncho's love for education.

Don Gregorio takes Moncho and his classmates on a memorable field trip in the beautiful woods. He captivates Moncho with a lesson about nature, specifically the delicate butterfly's tongue, fostering a deep curiosity in the young boy.

During the field trip, Moncho suffers an asthma attack that raises alarms among his peers. Don Gregorio quickly comes to his aid, demonstrating his nurturing nature and solidifying their bond.

As the Spanish civil war begins to unfold, the political climate in the town grows increasingly tense. Moncho's father, a Republican, shares similar beliefs with Don Gregorio, heightening concerns as the Nationalists gain control.

The Nationalists begin capturing prominent Republicans, including Moncho's beloved teacher Don Gregorio. The atmosphere in town shifts dramatically, filling the streets with fear and anxiety.

In a moment of desperation to protect their family, Moncho's family joins the angry crowds in the town square. They are compelled to mock and jeer at the captured Republicans as they are paraded through the streets.

Caught in a conflict between his upbringing and the pressure of the crowd, Moncho feels compelled to join in the hateful chants. The societal pressure becomes overwhelming for the young boy, forcing him to betray his own values.

In a heart-wrenching moment, Moncho throws stones and shouts hurtful words at his teacher, Don Gregorio. The last word he utters, 'espiritrompa', carries deep emotional weight as it symbolizes his inner turmoil and conflict.

As Moncho grapples with the shame of betraying his mentor, he experiences profound internal conflict. This moment highlights the impact of societal expectations on a young boy's perception of loyalty and love.