The Tunnel

Main Ideas

• The idea of alienation and isolation: At the center of the narrative is the protagonist, artist Juan Pablo Castel, who feels disconnected from society and unable to form genuine connections with others. His inner world resembles a tunnel from which he cannot escape.
• Obsessive love and jealousy: Castel is obsessed with a woman named Maria, whom he considers the only person capable of understanding his art. This obsession grows into a painful jealousy, leading to tragic consequences.
• The search for meaning and truth: The protagonist constantly seeks meaning in his actions and the world around him. His reflections on life, art, and human nature underscore his existential quest.
• The conflict between art and reality: As an artist, Castel faces difficulties in expressing his inner experiences through art. He feels that his paintings cannot fully convey his vision, which intensifies his sense of isolation.
• The theme of madness: The narrative explores the boundaries between reason and madness, showing how obsessive ideas and emotional instability can lead to destructive outcomes.