Translated from the original Spanish through the auspices of the Instituto Cervantes, Gabriel Miro’s novel, now considered a masterpiece of twentieth-century Spanish literature, presents a glimpse into the colorful lives of various characters whose happiness depends on going against the prevailing mores of the time, and discusses themes that remain relevant to contemporary Philippine society. Translator Marlon Sales teaches Spanish language and literature at the Instituto Cervantes. He has degrees from UP and the University of Villadolid in Spain.