In 1936, at the onset of the Spanish Civil War, a newlywed man who has voiced his criticism against the Nationalist army and government finds himself fearing for his life, worried that he may be targeted in a series of reprisal killings. With the looming danger, he seeks refuge in his own home, hiding under the floor thanks to his devoted wife, Rosa. The first segment of his journey, titled “campeada” (to run), reveals the harrowing experience he endures as he evades his pursuers.
As the story unfolds into the section called “esconder” (to hide), tragedy strikes as he faces betrayal from a neighbor, prompting him to relocate to a trench beneath the kitchen. This transformation leads us into the “detención” (temporary loss of freedom) phase, wherein the couple begins to speculate about a potential Republican victory in the war—a mere fantasy that helps them cope with their dire reality.
As the narrative continues to unravel in the Peligro (danger) segment, the political tempest escalates, culminating in the arrest of Higinio's wife, Rosa, who steadfastly refuses to disclose her husband's whereabouts. The isolation felt by Higinio grows in Encerrar (shut down), as he grapples with confinement, all while Rosa experiences her own trials. Pregnant either with Higinio's child or that of a policeman who previously assaulted her, the family's situation grows increasingly complex. Amid their struggles, Higinio forms a friendship with two men who come to stay at their home.
In the Apartado (remote) section, Higinio's world begins to shrink, and he feels the weight of loneliness pressing upon him. He peeks out at the world only through the cracks of their hiding place, straining to catch news through the radio and TV. The Cambiar (change) and Franco (frank) chapters depict Higinio's transformation as the birth of their son, Jaime, prompts reflections on the necessity of coming out of hiding. Rosa encourages him, reminding him of the family's urgent need for his presence.
Higinio's eventual struggle becomes apparent when his wife and son question his decision to remain concealed, revealing that many in the neighborhood are aware of his presence beneath their home. However, bound by the comforts of isolation, he finds it increasingly difficult to ascend from his hiding place.
The chapter Desenterrar finds Higinio contemplating the idea of emerging back into the world, and a landmark moment occurs in 1969 when the Franco government announces an amnesty, lifting some of the burdens of his past. Yet, accustomed to his secluded existence, leaving the trench remains a daunting prospect.
Finally, in Salir (go out), the story takes a pivotal turn as Rosa threatens to abandon Higinio, underscoring his paralyzing fear. This ultimatum acts as a catalyst, pushing him to confront his long-held anxieties and prompting a daring escape from the confines of his hiding spot, ultimately joining other "topos" (moles) who have chosen to reveal themselves once more.
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