With dreams as vast as the ocean, the young lad departs from his familiar abode to carve out a life upon the high seas. Yet, what greets him is not the mesmerizing allure nor the structured routine he had envisioned. Instead, he grapples with the harsh truth of a world marked by elusive jobs and a relentless, aching hunger.

Aniceto's Loneliness

This recurring theme weaves itself through the rich tapestry of Rojas' fiction. In his celebrated novel, Hijo de ladrón (Born Guilty), we follow the journey of Aniceto, a character caught in the throes of solitude. Burdened by the shadow of his father's criminal legacy, Aniceto grapples with societal judgment that unfairly brands him as a delinquent. Cast to the fringes of society, he battles against the isolation that encircles him.

The Struggle in "The Glass of Milk"

The protagonist of "The Glass of Milk" faces a similar desolate battle against loneliness as he attempts to integrate with the stevedores on the bustling waterfront. Yet, in a cruel twist of fate, he finds himself perpetually on the outside of their camaraderie. As lunchtime arrives, he retreats in solitude, distancing himself from the convivial gatherings. Even at the milk bar, he lingers in the shadows until the bustle fades, entering only when he can be alone. His quest for connection remains unmet, as isolation clings to him throughout the narrative.