An Introduction to ‘Hombrecito’
‘Hombrecito’, the debut novel by Santiago Jose Sanchez, is a poignant and evocative queer coming-of-age story. Through the eyes of the protagonist, Santiago, the novel traverses significant emotional and geographic landscapes, from Ibagué, Colombia, to Miami and New York. The narrative touches on deeply personal themes of alienation, family, and self-acceptance.
The Journey from Ibagué to Miami
The story opens in Ibagué, a city that Santiago revisits frequently in his dreams, memories, and reality. It is here that Santiago grapples with the complexities of his early life, including an absent father and a mother who occasionally ‘forgets she is a mother.’ The initial chapters encapsulate Santiago’s growing sense of otherness and confusion as he tries to navigate a world that doesn’t align with his internal experiences.
Embracing Queerness Amidst Alienation
When Santiago moves to Miami with his mother and brother, those feelings of estrangement continue to loom. However, it is also in Miami that he starts embracing his queerness, something that becomes a significant part of his identity. Sanchez masterfully portrays Santiago’s emotional conflicts and burgeoning self-awareness as he interacts with the world around him.
A Search for Belonging
Santiago’s journey continues as he leaves home for college in New York. The novel delves into the various relationships he forms, each riddled with complications yet pivotal for his growth. From his first boyfriend to the men he encounters but doesn’t fully open up to, these interactions underscore his perpetual search for belonging and understanding.
Thematic Underpinnings
‘Hombrecito’ is a novel about the imperceptible events and significant moments that frame our world view. It explores themes of silence, self-destruction, love, and the ongoing struggle between hiding one’s true self and seeking acceptance. It is a story of queerness and transience, meticulously narrated to depict Santiago’s slow but inevitable journey to finding a home within himself.
