The Distances, Julio Cortazar: Summary & Analysis

‘The Distances’ is a short story by the renowned Argentinian writer Julio Cortázar (1914-84), published in his 1951 collection Bestiary . The story delves into the surreal realm as it follows a woman who discovers her doppelgänger in her dreams and subsequently exchanges identities with this mysterious other. Like many of Julio Cortázar's works, 'The Distances' captivates readers with its playful, dense, and enigmatic narrative. Before delving into an analysis of the story's themes and meanings, let's provide a concise summary of the plot. Plot Summary The story unfolds through the diary entries of a woman named Alina Reyes , who resides in Buenos Aires with her mother. Engaged to a man named Luis María , Alina eventually marries him towards the tale's conclusion. Early in the diary, Alina reveals a fondness for wordplay, crafting anagrams, and referring to herself in an impersonal manner, as though she is observing herself from afar. As the diary entries progress, i…