Love in the Time of Cholera (Illustrated Edition) Book Summary

by Gabriel García Márquez386

TL;DR

Love in the Time of Cholera (Illustrated Edition) by Gabriel García Márquez is a classic tale of enduring love, enriched with vibrant illustrations by Luisa Rivera.

What is Love in the Time of Cholera (Illustrated Edition) about

Love in the Time of Cholera (Illustrated Edition) by Gabriel García Márquez is a beautifully illustrated edition of a beloved classic. The story revolves around the passionate love between Florentino Ariza and Fermina Daza, who fall in love in their youth. However, Fermina marries a wealthy doctor, leading Florentino to wait over fifty years to declare his love again after her husband's death. The illustrated edition features color illustrations by Chilean artist Luisa Rivera and an interior design by the author's son, Gonzalo García Barcha, adding a visual dimension to this timeless story of love and perseverance.

Love in the Time of Cholera (Illustrated Edition) 5 Key Takeaways

Young Love

Florentino Ariza and Fermina Daza fall passionately in love during their youth, setting the stage for the central conflict of the story.

Marriage and Separation

Fermina marries a wealthy doctor, Dr. Juvenal Urbino, which devastates Florentino but does not deter his love for her.

Florentino's Affairs

Florentino engages in 622 affairs over the years, yet he remains emotionally loyal to Fermina, reserving his heart solely for her.

Death of Dr. Urbino

Dr. Urbino's death marks a turning point, allowing Florentino the opportunity to rekindle his love for Fermina.

Rekindled Love

Fifty years after their initial romance, Florentino declares his love for Fermina again, demonstrating the endurance and resilience of true love.

Top Love in the Time of Cholera (Illustrated Edition) Quotes

  • It was inevitable: the scent of bitter almonds always reminded him of the fate of unrequited love.
  • He was still too young to know that the heart's memory eliminates the bad and magnifies the good.
  • The only regret I will have in dying is if it is not for love.

Who should read Love in the Time of Cholera (Illustrated Edition)?

This book is ideal for readers who appreciate classic literature, intricate love stories, and rich, descriptive prose. It is also a perfect choice for fans of Gabriel García Márquez's magical realism and those looking to explore themes of enduring love and societal norms.

About the Author

Gabriel García Márquez was a Colombian novelist, short-story writer, screenwriter, and journalist, known affectionately as Gabo throughout Latin America. He received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1982. His most famous works include 'One Hundred Years of Solitude,' 'Chronicle of a Death Foretold,' and 'Love in the Time of Cholera.' García Márquez's writing is celebrated for its magical realism, vivid characterization, and profound exploration of human nature.

Love in the Time of Cholera (Illustrated Edition) Best Reviews

  • The New York Times describes it as 'a rich, commodious novel whose narrative power is matched only by its generosity of vision.'
  • Kirkus Reviews praises the illustrated edition, stating, 'The beautiful illustrations by Luisa Rivera add a new dimension to this timeless story, making it a must-have for both new readers and long-time fans.'

Love in the Time of Cholera (Illustrated Edition) FAQs

What is the message of Love in the Time of Cholera?

The novel celebrates love at all ages, challenging societal taboos against elderly romance and emphasizing that it is never too late to experience passionate love.

How long is Love in the Time of Cholera book?

The first English hardback edition has 348 pages.

Is Love in the Time of Cholera considered a classic?

Yes, it is often listed as one of the best books of all time and is considered a classic of literature.

How is the Love in the Time of Cholera book different from the movie?

The book provides a richer and more detailed portrayal of the characters and their emotions, particularly Dr. Urbino's love for Fermina and the town, whereas the movie focuses more on the stereotypical love story between men and women.