Without Men

The story begins with men suddenly vanishing from the village, forcing women to take on roles traditionally held by men. This event leads to the women realizing their independence and potential as they cope with their new circumstances. The societal shift sparks a series of changes in their daily lives and community structure.

Gordon, a journalist in the Colombian jungle, expresses frustration to his boss about the lack of a unique angle in his war coverage. His boss criticizes his approach, emphasizing the importance of a compelling story, which leaves Gordon feeling pressured to find a new perspective. This sets his motivation to seek out a more meaningful story.

After their call, John, a child overhearing the conversation, offers Gordon a diary as a potential story source, but reveals he's illiterate. Gordon initially dismisses him but becomes curious when John mentions the diary's connection to a priest named Rafael. This diary becomes a key element in uncovering the village's history.

In the small village of Mariquita, revolutionaries led by Camacho arrive, decreeing the conscription of all male villagers to serve in the war. The residents panic and hide to avoid being taken, illustrating the tension and fear caused by the revolutionary force's demands.

Mayor Elias and his wife Rosalba scramble to find a hiding place, eventually concealing themselves in the pantry. Elias's decision to shove Rosalba aside reflects his prioritization of personal safety over her well-being during the revolutionary invasion.

Camacho's group discovers Elias and kills him upon retrieving his location. This brutal event underscores the violence and danger women and children faced during the revolution, and it marks a turning point in their struggle for survival and independence.

Magnolia helps her brother Julio disguise himself as a woman to escape forced concription. The women also take on manual tasks and continue to hide the absence of men, demonstrating their resilience and adaptation to the new social order.

Priest Rafael, claimed to be acting on divine command, begins impregnating women in the village to ensure its survival. The women, including inexperienced Virgelina and Cecilia, engage in awkward lovemaking with the priest, only to become disillusioned when he refuses further intimacy, feeling used.

Disillusioned with the priest's inability to produce offspring and feeling exploited, the women banish Rafael from the village. Their collective rejection signifies a rejection of patriarchal control and a move towards autonomy.

Elias, presumed dead, returns to the village, seeking to reclaim his position as mayor. He demands possessions and questions Rosalba's leadership, leading to tensions and confrontations with other villagers who support Rosalba's authority.

Rosalba confesses her feelings for Cleotilde during a village gathering, leading to a romantic relationship. Their bond symbolizes hope and personal freedom amid societal upheaval, inspiring others in the village.

Gordon, despite pressure from his boss and temptation of fame, chooses to withhold the story of Mariquita to preserve the village's peace. His decision emphasizes the importance of respecting the community's desire for autonomy and confidentiality.

Following the conflicts, the women and remaining villagers work together to grow crops, improve their environment, and redefine societal roles. Rosalba proposes a female concept of time based on menstruation and goals, symbolizing a transformation towards gender equality.

Cultural shifts lead to women celebrating their independence, openly expressing love, and forming relationships. The community thrives with shared work and love, marking a significant societal change from their previous oppressed state.